The Los Angeles Lakers’ ongoing efforts to trade Russell Westbrook might finally pay off.
The Athletic’s Shams Charania outlined a proposed three-team, blockbuster deal Wednesday that would send Westbrook and a draft pick or picks to the Utah Jazz. The Jazz would move Mike Conley to the Minnesota Timberwolves, who in turn would ship D’Angelo Russell to the Lakers. Russell, of course, spent his first two seasons with the Lakers after being selected No. 2 overall in 2015.
Charania added that the Jazz have discussed moving Malik Beasley and Jarred Vanderbilt to the Lakers as part of the deal.
Obviously, there are plenty of moving parts to this potential blockbuster, and until it’s done, it’s nothing more than a proposal. Just a few days ago, the Lakers were reportedly trying to move Westbrook in a deal to acquire Kyrie Irving.
Still, from Charania’s report, this deal seems more likely than not. NBA fans quickly weighed in on the news.
“LeBron fifth title incoming, I fear,” tweeted Daniel Corrigan.
D’Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley, and Jarred Vanderbilt would be a huge get for Westbrook and change would be a great trade for the Lakers; emphasis on Vanderbilt. https://t.co/9UxdnaIYqd
— Shamhat&Enkidu (@3xOscarWinner) February 8, 2023
https://twitter.com/DogsLifeMedia22/status/1623434016321048576
[Shams Charania, The Athletic]