3 Events that led to the Los Angeles Lakers’ dumpster fire
By Cal Durrett
Los Angeles Lakers Event #1: The Russell Westbrook trade.
Think the Davis trade is bad? Look at the Westbrook trade. The Lakers traded Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Kyle Kuzma, Montrezl Harrell, and the 22nd overall pick in the 2020 NBA draft for Westbrook and two second-rounders. At the time, trading three rotation players for a superstar, a declining superstar but one nonetheless, seemed like a no-brainer. Unfortunately, it’s been a disaster.
Though they didn’t give up many assets to acquire Westbrook, they may have to move their remaining two first-round picks to offload him. That’s a backbreaker, and it could mean the Lakers will be giving up future lottery picks just to get rid of Westbrook now. If they do, at least they could get back some key pieces that will help make this year’s team competitive.
If they don’t, however, that could anger James, who likely agreed to re-sign with the assurance that the team would do everything it could to build around him, and he may leave after next season as a result. Keeping him could also mean that Westbrook continues to hurt the team on the court or completely checks out. That may result in the team sending him home, which would be an absolute embarrassment considering he’s making $47 million this season.
Next. Three no-brainer Westbrook trades for the Lakers. dark
The whole Lakers situation is an absolute mess, and there are no easy fixes or painless ways out. No matter what they do, it could take years before this team is a true contender again, and that makes the Los Angeles Lakers a dumpster fire.