NBA Trade Rumors: LeBron James Might Be Willing to Part With Russell Westbrook to Play With 14-Year Veteran From Knicks

If anyone speaks about a global superstar in the sports world, one of the names that comes to mind is LeBron James. In his 4 seasons with the Lakers, the ‘King’ has been the frontman of the franchise and even helped deliver the Lakers its 17th NBA title. In fact, fans saw a high possibility of the 18th title this season when Russell Westbrook became a Laker. Together with LeBron, and Anthony Davis, the Lakers had high expectations.

However, the story has nowhere been close to expectations this season. Despite the Lakers winning their last match, they sit below the 0.500 mark. Moreover, AD‘s recent ankle injury is an additional concern. Over the course of the season, many have pointed fingers at Russell Westbrook as one of the reasons behind the Lakers’ poor run.

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So it was expected that Russ would part ways with the Lakers at the trade deadline. However, that did not happen. Now, a new report has emerged that indicates Russ joining the Knicks next season in exchange for an NBA veteran.

Russell Westbrook to Part Ways With LeBron James?

A new trade rumor has emerged where Russell Westbrook could part ways with LeBron and take his talents to New York. In exchange, the Lakers would get former MVP, Derrick Rose. On most occasions, LeBron and Rose have always faced off against each other. One recent hard-fought battle between the two would be during the 2015 playoffs. Although the Cavs would take the series in 6 games, Rose hit a stunning buzzer-beater in one of the games.

Since then, Rose has been on different teams and even featured in a Cavs uniform alongside LeBron James. However, he now finds himself as part of the New York Knicks with a valuable role off the bench.

If a Russ-Rose trade were to happen, the Knicks would have to give up additional pieces as well. According to the ESPN trade machine, a possible trade would include the Knicks receiving Westbrook in exchange for Rose, Burks, Barrett, and Noel.

Russell Westbrook and Derrick Rose

In comparison to Rose, Russ is a much better scorer, rebounder, and passer. In fact, he has the most number of triple-doubles in NBA history. So it would seem like the Lakers would take a bit of a hit in all these departments. However, Rose brings carefulness to the table. Unlike Westbrook, Rose averages fewer turnovers. Additionally, Rose is a better shooter from beyond the arc and the free-throw line.

In addition to this, if the Lakers were to actually receive additional pieces such as RJ Barrett, they could get a boost on the scoring end. So this trade does look lucrative for the Lakers. Regardless, this situation is only possible next season. Whatever the case may be, it’s now or never for the Lakers. As LeBron ages on, Russ will have to provide the required help for the Lakers to win.

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What do you think will happen to the Lakers this season? Let us know in the comments below.