Pros and Cons of Los Angeles Lakers’ Blockbuster Trade for Russell Westbrook

The NBA draft night took no time to become wild. Big news coming in regarding the Lakers as they traded for Russell Westbrook. In return, the Wizards receive Kuzma, Harrell, Cardwell Pope and the No.22 pick in the 2021 NBA draft.

Westbrook will now join forces with LeBron James and Anthony Davis next season. The ‘Brodie’ has proven himself as a franchise player in the past. However, can he work alongside LeBron and AD to finally win a championship?

Russ has done countless impossible things in this NBA career. Notably, surpassing Oscar Robertson for the most triple doubles. So, he would be a great fit for any organisation. But, there are also arguments over his play style.

Like any other trade, there is the good and the bad.

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Pros of Russell Westbrook to LA

The Los Angeles boy will finally get a chance to represent his hometown. And, he solves quite a few problems for the Los Angeles Lakers.

The ‘Brodie’ is one of the best passers in the NBA. He led the league in assists yet again with 11 per game. With LeBron off the floor, Westbrook will keep the offence from being dormant and get everyone involved. He knows how to create shots for others and keep everyone in the game.

In addition, his ability to score is no less. Even though he has taken recognition as a pass first player, he can take over the scoring as well. We saw that last season when Washington played without Beal. Westbrook’s nuclear athleticism and ability to get to the rim is unmatched. Delivering 22 points per night on 11 assists is something only the ‘Brodie is capable of doing.

Russ definitely improves LA’s chances of competing.He plays hard on every possession and gives it his all. However, he creates a few problems as well.

Cons of the ‘Brodie’ to LA

Russell Westbrook is a great player without question. However, he is a ball dominant player. Hence, the Lakers now have 2 ball dominant players with LeBron and Russ.

In addition, Russ’ last 2 playoffs have not been his greatest showings. Averaging just 19 points while shooting 19 shot is not great. His efficiency and volume of shots could potentially hurt the Lakers going into the season.

However, the main problems lies in his shooting struggles. Lakers were desperate to add a great shooter in their roster. Russell Westbrook does not solve that problem. He is not an up to par three point shooter and is not efficient from the free throw line either. He has never shot over 35% from three in his career.

Moreover, Russ has never averaged 50% from the field. Also, another concern is his desire to star. For LA and Westbrook to work, the most important thing will be sacrifice. He will have to sacrifice his stats, his time with ball in hand and the number of shots he takes.

However, with a chip on his shoulder to win a title, Westbrook can surely put it all aside. He knows to how to work with stars and he will be an asset for the Lakers this coming season.

Do you think Westbrook can win a title with the Lakers? Let us know in the comments.

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