Houston Rockets: Buy or sell on Russell Westbrook trade destinations
By Dalton Sell
Charlotte Hornets (+350) – Think about it, but sell
ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne reported that Russell Westbrook might not be looking to strictly go to an NBA contender, but rather a team where he can be “the man.” If that is indeed the case, the Charlotte Hornets fit the bill.
With no clear cut franchise player, a place like Charlotte would allow Russell Westbrook to reclaim his role as the head of the snake. Hornets’ owner Michael Jordan is also no stranger to Westbrook, as the former MVP inked a deal with Jordan Brand in 2017 that made him the highest-paid athlete under the brand. However, with the No. 3 overall selection in this week’s NBA Draft, the Hornets should consider preparing for the future rather than trading for an aging superstar.
Detroit Pistons (+325) – Sell and build for the future
As soon as Russell Westbrook requested his trade from the Houston Rockets, links to the Detroit Pistons soon followed. The most apparent reason for that is likely Detroit’s new general manager, Troy Weaver, as he convinced Oklahoma City GM Sam Presti to select Westbrook No. 4 overall in the 2008 NBA draft.
However, Westbrook does not make much sense for the Pistons in the grand scheme of things. Detroit’s two best players, Derrick Rose and Blake Griffin, will likely be on the trade market this offseason as the team appears to be heading towards a rebuild. With ESPN’s Eric Woodyard reporting that the Pistons might be looking to move up from the No. 7 overall pick to select LaMelo Ball, bringing aboard Westbrook would be a step in the opposite direction. LaMelo would be a fantastic fit in Detroit. Westbrook, not so much.