“Putting Their Egos Aside”: Report Details Meeting Westbrook Had With LeBron and Davis Before Lakers Trade

In one of the best and most shocking trades in recent history, Russell Westbrook was traded to the Los Angeles Lakers on the 2021 NBA Draft Night. Westbrook left the Wizards in order to play with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Some sources had reported the possibility of the move happening, but the sheer suddenness of it all amazed everyone. Was it a shocker for the Lakers duo as well? Apparently not.

In a sensational bid, Westbrook was traded to the yellow army, in exchange for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Kyle Kuzma, Montrezl Harrell and their No.22 pick. In addition to the point-guard, LA received a 2024 and 2028 second round pick in the draft. The deal was met with mixed reactions from the world of basketball.

While many welcomed the 32-year-old to his new side, some were skeptical about the move, due to Westbrook’s dip in form. Nonetheless, the Lakers now possess three world-class match winners at their disposal. If they can find the right balance, they will be the team to beat next year. In the 2020-21 season, LeBron, Davis and Westbrook averaged 25, 21.8 and 22.2 points respectively. Yet, the communication seems to have gotten going early between the trio.

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New Lakers trio had met at James’ house to discuss playing together

The Lakers were mightily disappointed with their recent campaign. After the way things ended for them, they will want to bounce back next year. As per a recent report, Russell Westbrook had in fact spoken to LA’s two stars before the draft. They met at LeBron James‘ house and discussed the potential of them playing on the same team. Contrary to what many people thought, this means that the deal was already talked of.

According to top insider source Brad Turner,?“They [LeBron, Davis, Westbrook] talked about putting their egos aside and playing as one, in their quest to bring the Lakers another NBA Championship.”?Meanwhile, the Lakers also selected Isaiah Jackson, but traded him to the Indiana Pacers via the Wizards.

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With Russell Westbrook now in the mix, the Los Angeles Lakers might look as formidable on paper as ever. However, a lot will depend on how the trio of attackers coordinate with one another. Do you think Westbrook’s addition the men in yellow was beneficial? How far will the Lakers go in the upcoming season? There is not long to go before we find out.