With Russell Westbrook requesting a trade from the Houston Rockets, where could the NBA’s 2016-17 MVP find himself playing next?
After spending just one NBA season with the Houston Rockets, Russell Westbrook reportedly wants out of H-Town.
The Athletic’s Shams Charania and Kelly Iko ($$) broke the news last week, citing Westbrook’s expressed concern surrounding the Rockets’ “accountability and culture” as his main reasoning. The 2016-17 league MVP also reportedly wants to take on a role as the lead floor general, similar to his earlier days with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
As much as Westbrook wants out, trading him is far easier said than done for Houston. With three years and a monstrous $132.6 million remaining on his deal, the guard could be the most untradable player in the entire association. Teams also have to take note of his unique style of play, as the Houston Rockets shipped out their starting center and adapted micro-ball to complement Westbrook’s slashing better. While potential suitors do not have to go that route, it is a red flag that comes with any interest in the 32-year-old.
Still, the man is a former league-MVP, and someone out there could undoubtedly utilize his services in the right situation. According to one sportsbook, these are the current six favorites to land Russell Westbrook this offseason.
- New York Knicks +275
- Orlando Magic +300
- Detroit Pistons +325
- Charlotte Hornets +350
- Milwaukee Bucks +375
- Philadelphia 76ers +700
Several of these franchises indeed have reported interest in Westbrook, while others are just pure speculation. Only time will tell which jersey Russell Westbrook plays in next season, but here is a buy or sell examination between these six teams on landing spots for the disgruntled guard.