The Los Angeles Lakers, stuck with their star duo in 2020-21. But then they learned, the hard way, that those two pieces (when unhealthy) aren’t enough to win a title. At the same, other big market teams started stacking up All-Star rosters. So it had become even more important for the Lake Show to step up themselves. Perhaps this was what forced them to make a mind-shattering trade for Russell Westbrook.

Russ, a Blue Whale of a player, is exactly what the LA-based team required to fight against the likes of Nets, Warriors, Clippers, and Bucks. But one such name comes at a price, a crazy hefty price.

How much did the Russell Westbrook package cost?

For starters, in non-numeric terms, the Lakers lost their depth with the signing of Russell Westbrook. They let go of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Kyle Kuzma, Montrezl Harrell, and #22 pick (Isaiah Jackson) to acquire Russ and two future second rounders. Had this been a year 2020 trade, many would’ve questioned it. But given the lackluster playoff performance from these players, a Westbrook in return is a lottery in itself.

The nine-time All-Star is owed $91 million for the next two years with a $47 million PO in 2022-23. This makes him the second-best player/guard in the league and imposes a massive cap space burden on the Lakers. However, if Russ lives up to the hype, Pelinka won’t mind shelling out the big bucks.

ALSO READ – NBA Draft #1 Pick Cade Cunningham Believes the Night Belonged to Him, Despite Russell Westbrook’s Move to Lakers

What will the Lakers want beyond a Russ deal?

Russell Westbrook was on fire in 2020-21. He was the main reason behind the Wizards turning their fate and entering the playoffs when they had a painfully poor beginning to the season. Mr. Triple-Double hence proved his worth in terms of scoring and distributing to earn a trade to his home city of Los Ange. But his inclusion has left the Lakers gasping for some rotational depth and a free agency signing of a trustworthy perimeter shooter. 

For that, Rob Pelinka & Jeanie Buss must now exploit the taxpayer mid-level exception (around $5.9 million yearly) to get some help from underrated shooters. Plus, they can also go for some of the league veteran’s minimum signing to instantly become a win-now top title contender (which they already are). 

So what’s your take, can the Lakers get a balanced roster to fill the gaps? Help us know what should be their next move as per your understanding. We welcome and await your comments!

WATCH THIS STORY – Top 10 Picks of 2021 NBA Drafts