BREAKING: Russell Westbrook traded to Utah Jazz in 3-team trade

The LA Lakers have traded Russell Westbrook to the Utah Jazz. After much speculation, the trade agreed to on Wednesday will involve two other teams, with Westbrook finally leaving Los Angeles.

According to reports, the Lakers will acquire D'Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley and Jarred Vanderbilt. The Minnesota Timberwolves will get Mike Conley and future draft picks. The Jazz will receive Westbrook and a protected 2027 LA first-round pick.

Shams Charania

@ShamsCharania

Lakers, Jazz and Timberwolves are finalizing trade sending D’Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley and Jarred Vanderbilt to Los Angeles, Russell Westbrook and first-round pick to Utah and Mike Conley Jr. and second-round pick compensation to Minnesota, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

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Lakers, Jazz and Timberwolves are finalizing trade sending D’Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley and Jarred Vanderbilt to Los Angeles, Russell Westbrook and first-round pick to Utah and Mike Conley Jr. and second-round pick compensation to Minnesota, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium.

This will be Russell's second stint with the Lakers, after they traded him to the Brooklyn Nets in 2017. The franchise drafted him with the No. 2 pick in 2015.

The Russell Westbrook trade has been in the works for a while

The Lakers have been in contact with the Timberwolves and the Jazz in regards to shipping out Russell Westbrook for quite some time. They've waited for the right moment to trade the nine-time All-Star, who has not lived up to expectations since joining the team.

NBACentral

@TheNBACentral

The Los Angeles Lakers are exploring the point guard market and have engaged the Minnesota Timberwolves on a deal for D'Angelo Russell, per @RealGM

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The Los Angeles Lakers are exploring the point guard market and have engaged the Minnesota Timberwolves on a deal for D'Angelo Russell, per @RealGM https://t.co/6q2KHqS1qu

The good thing for them Lakers is that they'll get valuable pieces in return. D'Angelo Russell started off his career with the Lakers and has been a top contributor since he was moved by the management. Additionally, Los Angeles will acquire key role players in Beasley and Vanderbilt. Both are solid contributors and can add depth to the team.

Russell has been incredible for the Wolves this season. He's averaging 17.9 points, 3.1 rebounds and 6.2 assists while shooting 46.5% from the field, including 39.1% from three. He'll be responsible for orchestrating the Lakers' offense moving forward.

For Westbrook, there have been reports that the Jazz could buy out his contract once they acquire him. Teams like the Chicago Bulls, Miami Heat and Toronto Raptors are potential destinations. He's been stellar in the past few games, but could be signed to a veteran minimum contract.

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NBACentral

@TheNBACentral

Russell Westbrook is expected to be bought out if he’s traded to Utah, per @ChrisBHaynes

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Russell Westbrook is expected to be bought out if he’s traded to Utah, per @ChrisBHaynes https://t.co/KY4wzSHxvk

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