Lakers rumors: 3 reasons they still have a shot at Russell Westbrook

Apr 25, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) looks at the scoreboard late in the fourth quarter while the Thunder play the Houston Rockets in the second half in game five of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Toyota Center. Houston Rockets won 105 to 99 .Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 25, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) looks at the scoreboard late in the fourth quarter while the Thunder play the Houston Rockets in the second half in game five of the first round of the 2017 NBA Playoffs at Toyota Center. Houston Rockets won 105 to 99 .Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports /

Closing Thoughts

It’s not a slam dunk just yet, but imagine the wow factor if the Lakers pull this off. Not only will the Johnson-led front office show they can get just about anybody, but they’ll demonstrate that they’re ready to contend for a title, not just playoff positioning.

Getting back to the postseason is one of the first steps, but don’t be fooled into thinking a championship isn’t on the to-do list.

Winning is what the Lakers are all about. It’s how they became one of the most, if not the most, storied franchise in league history.

Getting it done in the Finals matters. Westbrook will be more than ready at the age of 30 for his shot at a ring, and going home to Los Angeles might be the perfect place for him to do that.

Plus, it’s about time that Westbrook thinks about himself. It’s great that he comes across as selfless, as even in the playoffs he refused to think of his teammates as a supporting cast, but that’s not realistic.

Next: 3 Reasons Lakers Could Steal Klay Thompson

He needs to do what’s best for him, period. On that note, though, Magic Johnson and Rob Pelinka better come knocking.