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According to reports, the LA Lakers have discussed a three-team trade that would see the end of Russell Westbrook and his sizable contract.
The proposed trade would involve Westbrook going to Utah and getting bought out, while the Jazz would send Donovan Mitchell to the New York Knicks. A combination of two players, including Patrick Beverley and Jordan Clarkson, Bojan Bogdanovic or Malik Beasley would go to the Lakers, and the Jazz would receive draft pick compensation from the other two teams.
On "The Herdline News," Colin Cowherd said the proposed trade would result in every team getting what they wanted.
"Here's why it makes sense. The Knicks do want Donovan Mitchell, the Lakers want Russell Westbrook out at any cost, and Danny Ainge wants draft picks. So, all three teams get what they want.
"When you have a three-team proposition, and everybody gets what they want. Utah gets the picks, Knicks get the star, and the Lakers get out of Westbrook's deal, that makes sense. That's exciting."
Since the start of the offseason, the Lakers have been looking for a way to trade Russell Westbrook. Although they have had several conversations with the Brooklyn Nets regarding a potential Kyrie Irving-Westbrook swap, no deal has materialized.
The New York Knicks had a disappointing 2021-22 season and have made aggressive moves in the offseason to put them in a position to compete next season.
Surprisingly, the Utah Jazz have embraced a rebuild. They traded Rudy Gobert to the Minnesota Timberwolves, getting several players and four draft picks in return. They are also willing to part ways with Mitchell.
For the Lakers, dumping Westbrook's $47 million contract would be a win, but there are no other positives as they will not get an All-Star who could help their title run.
Can the LA Lakers contend for the 2023 NBA title?
Not much has changed from last year's roster. Although the Lakers have brought in a couple of younger players, they are not likely to significantly impact games.
The Lakers look set to put all their eggs in the Anthony Davis basket. They believe they can go all the way if the big man is healthy.
However, the last two seasons have been unkind to Davis. The three-time block champion has suffered several injuries to his lower body, forcing him to miss large stretches of the season.
But if Davis and LeBron James are healthy, the LA Lakers will fancy their chances of going deep into the playoffs.
Guess the Lakers players!
