How Russell Westbrook’s Contract Could Become Lakers Asset

Russell Westbrook, Los Angeles Lakers, NBA
NBA Analysis Network

There have been a lot of discussions already this offseason for the Los Angeles Lakers about what to do with point guard Russell Westbrook. Some people believe they have to part ways after how poorly things went during the 2021-22 NBA season.

Westbrook was never able to find his niche with the team, struggling to mesh alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The number of games James and Davis missed didn’t help with developing chemistry, but Westbrook didn’t look like his normal self even when they weren’t on the court and he had more free reign with the ball in his hands.

Finding a team that would be willing to accept Westbrook in a trade package is easier said than done, however. If he opts into his contract for the 2022-23 season, Westbrook will be making $47.1 million. It doesn’t help that the rest of the league has reportedly taken a strong stance in negotiations with the Lakers.

While that is seen as a deterrent now, it is actually something that could become an asset for the Lakers down the road.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Best & Worst Trade Destinations For Lakers’ Russell Westbrook

As Jovan Buha broke down over at The Athletic, a paid-subscription outlet, Westbrook’s value will increase throughout the season if Los Angeles does change course and hold onto him.

“The good news for the Lakers is that Westbrook’s trade value should progressively increase as the trade deadline approaches. He’s a gigantic expiring contract — that has value to rebuilding teams or teams looking to shed salary as they retool their rosters. No NBA contract is untradeable. Teams are unlikely to play hardball forever. It only takes one rival to change their mind.”

Odds are there is a team around the league whose plans will change during the 2022-23 season. Maybe they got aggressive during free agency and signed some players hoping to push toward a playoff spot but are going to be short. They could look to get out of those deals by making a deal with the Lakers for Westbrook’s expiring deal.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Best & Worst Trade Destinations For Lakers’ Russell Westbrook

That would likely enable Los Angeles to retain all of its draft capital as well. A deal consummated during the season would likely be a salary dump for another team, hoping to get back Russell Westbrook’s expiring deal to help clean up their books. If anything, the Los Angeles Lakers could hold out for a draft pick to be included as they would likely be taking on long-term salary.

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