One notable name that could be moved is Westbrook. The guard has had a shaky tenure with the Lakers since joining the group last season.

LA Lakers veteran Russell Westbrook is no complete stranger to trade speculation. After a sluggish start to the 2022-23 season, the Lakers could be active in the trade market.

He might be worth the gamble if an opposing group is encouraged that Westbrook can still play at a high level. What’s a lot more interesting with Westbrook is his agreement scenario. Westbrook remains in the last year of his contract, meaning his offer will come off the books after this season, when he’s making north of $47 million.

If Westbrook is traded, there’s likewise an opportunity for him to end up as a buy-out prospect. That would more than likely increase the interest around the league in adding Westbrook on a team-friendly contract. According to a current report from Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus, the Miami Heat could be a team to keep an eye out for in terms of including Westbrook:

Russell Westbrook slowly discovering his groove with the LA Lakers

Currently, the Lakers (5-11) have started to reveal some recent signs of life since late. Among the enjoyable surprises has actually been the play of Russell Westbrook.

The LA Lakers are hoping to create some momentum in the Western Conference standings. It’s been a sluggish start to the 2022-23 season for the Lakers. The team opened the year with five consecutive losses.

During that same stretch, Westbrook has started to play some of his finest basketball of the year. Westbrook still looks to have the capability to shine on the basketball court.

NBA

In his very first 10 games, Westbrook averaged 16.1 points, 5.6 rebounds and 6.3 assists per game. Throughout that stretch, he was shooting 43.6%, consisting of 32.5% from 3-point range.

If an opposing team is persuaded that Westbrook can still play at a high level, he might be worth the gamble. If Westbrook is traded, there’s also a chance for him to end up as a buy-out prospect. According to a current report from Bleacher Report’s Eric Pincus, the Miami Heat could be a group to view out for in terms of including Westbrook:

Throughout that exact same stretch, Westbrook has started to play some of his finest basketball of the year.