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After another disappointing end to their season, the Houston Rockets are planning to go into rebuild mode this off-season. The Texas-based franchise lost 4-1 to the LA Lakers in the Western Conference semi-finals after winning game 1 of the series. According to NBA trade rumors, the Rockets are open to the idea of letting Russell Westbrook go before the start of next season.
NBA Trade Rumors: 5 possible destinations for Russell Westbrook this off-season
#1- Indiana Pacers
The Pacers could part ways with talismanic combo guard Victor Oladipo this off-season, so a trade for Russell Westbrook makes a lot of sense for them.
The Indiana Pacers have good role players and scorers like point-guard Malcolm Brogdon and power-forward Domantas Sabonis but will lack a player who could take over in crunch time once Oladipo departs.
Russell Westbrook has the ability to fill that gap, and if he is able to emulate his MVP form, then the Indiana Pacers will become legitimate championship contenders.
#2- Detroit Pistons
According to multiple NBA trade rumors, the Detroit Pistons will entertain offers for Blake Griffin in the off-season. This will be a perfect opportunity for the Rockets as they lack an offense initiator in the front-court.
On the other hand, the Pistons will get a superstar in a position of need. The Detroit Pistons might also lose former NBA MVP Derrick Rose who is set to join a championship contender.
With former OKC Thunder star Russell Westbrook looking to prove himself after an injury-ridden year, the Detroit Pistons could be the beneficiaries of his services.
Also read: NBA Trade Rumors: Tyronn Lue or Mike D'Antoni - Who is a better fit for the Philadelphia 76ers?
#3- Orlando Magic
Magic have been a team that has struggled to perform in the postseason despite making the playoffs consistently. That is because they lack a perimeter player, with youngster Markelle Fultz being their primary ball-handler.
A trade for Russell Westbrook could allow them to improve offensively as he is capable of forging a dominant partnership with Serbian center Nikola Vucevic.
NBA trade rumors suggest that Westbrook is on the trade block this season, and the Magic could be one of the first teams to make an inquiry about him.
#4- New York Knicks
After having another lottery year, the Knicks will certainly have a go at this year's NBA free agency class. But the free agency options are quite limited and have players that would not suit the Knicks' culture and style of play.
However, one player who could fit right in is Russell Westbrook as he has the ability to lead the Knicks to the playoffs. With the Knicks not having enjoyed the services of a superstar since the days of Carmelo Anthony, a trade for Westbrook could certainly change their fortunes.
#5 - Milwaukee Bucks
Milwaukee Bucks had a disappointing end to their season as they lost to the Miami Heat in the NBA Eastern Conference semi-finals.
Their need for an accomplished point-guard was quite visible as Eric Bledsoe was not able to keep up with Miami's defense. A trade for Russell Westbrook should be explored by the Bucks as he will be able to take the extra pressure off Giannis Antetokounmpo's shoulders and make plays in the half-court, especially in the NBA playoffs.
Also read: Boston Celtics vs Miami Heat Prediction & Match Preview - September 23rd, 2020 | Game 4.
