Russell Westbrook Trade Rumors: Realistic Destinations

May 26, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) waits to take the floor prior to the game the game against the Golden State Warriors in game five of the Western conference finals of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /

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Jan 17, 2016; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) dunks the ball against the Miami Heat during the second quarter at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Miami Heat

The Miami Heat don’t have as much to offer as the Phoenix Suns. What Miami has in its favor, however, is a combination of three championship rings and a team president who knows how to land superstars.

If any executive can convince Russell Westbrook is the best place for him to take his talents, it would be Pat Riley.

Miami could offer an intriguing package that would include Goran Dragic, Josh Richardson, and Justise Winslow. That’s an All-NBA point guard and two promising young players who just completed strong rookie seasons.

Unfortunately, that’s also the type of package that Sam Presti would respond to by saying, “That’s a good start.”

On Westbrook’s end of the spectrum, he’d get to play in a desirable location with a rising star in Hassan Whiteside. He may also play with Chris Bosh if he remains healthy, and Dwyane Wade if he re-signs.

If Westbrook wants to win and play in a major market, Miami may be the place for him. It’s just more likely to occur through free agency.

Next: Superstar Pairing

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