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Teams Have Been Demanding One Thing From Lakers In Potential Russell Westbrook Trade

The Los Angeles Lakers expected more success this season with the help of former league MVP Russell Westbrook, but things turned out much worse as the team finished their campaign with a 33-49 record, which ultimately curbed their playoff hopes.

Westbrook failed to live up to expectations and struggled to find any consistent rhythm all year. As a ball-dominant player, he also had to fit in alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis which made it difficult for him to succeed as an individual. 

On the year, Westbrook averaged 18.5 points (his lowest mark since the 2009-10 NBA season), 7.4 rebounds and 7.1 assists per game on 44.4% shooting from the field, 29.8% from the three-point line and 66.7% from the charity stripe.

Appearing on an exit interview, Westbrook held no punches when discussing his experience with the Lakers. According to the 33-year old point guard, the Lakers didn’t actually allow him to be himself at all, which was in contrast to LeBron and Davis’ message during the season.

His exit interview already made it seem as there won’t be a future of the Westbrook-Lakers pairing, but a potential trade seems difficult to except, due to his rich contract (he will make more than $47 million on his player option next season). Even if the Lakers find a trading partner, it won’t be cheap for them.

Per The Athletic:

“Teams have been demanding the inclusion of at least one first-round pick to take on Westbrook’s massive expiring contract, according to league sources. Rival teams know how much of a public trainwreck last season was for the Lakers, and they’re not looking to do Los Angeles any favors by helping them off of Westbrook’s contract.”