Lakers Rumors: Three ways LA can land Russell Westbrook next summer
By Keith Rivas
LA needs to convince him that two is still better than one
It was with Kevin Durant alongside him that Russell Westbrook made it to the NBA Finals. Sure, things didn’t go well and the Thunder were out-played by the Heat en route to LeBron James’ first title, but that’s behind everyone involved.
That was back also when James Harden wasn’t a starter, and now he’s also part of the problem that Russell Westbrook finds himself in. Remaining in OKC showed his loyalty for now, but he knows that in the long term every season from here on out is not going to necessarily play out like his MVP year.
More from LA Sports Hub
- Lakers: 5 Players to Target Through Trades to make another championship run
- LA Chargers: Week 8 against Denver Broncos is a must-win
- LA Rams: Jared Goff wants to keep the Los Angeles title streak going
- Lakers Rumors: Los Angeles Clippers interested in Rajon Rondo
- LA Chargers: Justin Herbert wins AFC Rookie of the Month
How that kind of success can blind a superstar like Westbrook is unprecedented. He had one good year with the Thunder after Durant bailed and now he’s right back in the mix of things getting to share the floor with Paul George.
Depending on how their chemistry plays out during their at least one year together in Oklahoma City, the Lakers may really be in a position to grab them both. This decision ultimately falls at the feet of Magic Johnson, who has been vocal of his desire to land Paul George for quite some time.
The key, it would seem, to getting George might also be having to persuade Westbrook to come with him. It’s crazy to think that the Lakers might not have a choice, but imagine if the dynamic duo works out wonderfully but they just don’t want to stay in OKC?
Los Angeles has some money to play with next summer, and they wouldn’t hesitate to put it to good use like that. It’s not just about getting Paul George, who has been rumored time and again to want to play for the Lakers.
It’s about getting what’s best for the team done as soon as they possibly can.