Chris Haynes shares his “gut feeling” on Russell Westbrook’s future after Trade Deadline ends
Russell Westbrook and the Utah Jazz are expected to enter negotiations for a buyout. The question remains, what NBA team will be the next stop for the veteran guard?
Westbrook struggled throughout his tenure with the LA Lakers. He was shipped to the Utah Jazz in a three-team deal on Wednesday ahead of the NBA's trade deadline. The expectation is that the Jazz and Westbrook are going to work together to let him hit the free-agent market. After that, Westbrook will be able to choose whatever team he wants to suit up for next.
There's plenty who believe Westbrook has immediately become the best player available in the buyout market. Although Westbrook was inconsistent with the Lakers, a fresh start could be just what the star guard needs.
Teams such as the Miami Heat and Chicago Bulls have been connected to Westbrook. On an episode of "thisleague uncut," NBA insider Chris Haynes said:
"My gut feeling tells me he would probably like to stay home in LA. ... I feel like the Clippers have a really good shot at landing Russ."
On #thisleague Uncut, Chris Haynes says his ‘gut feeling’ is that Russell Westbrook stays home and ends up with the Clippers. https://t.co/1KwnqfEWm8
Russell Westbrook drawing interest from numerous teams
Russell Westbrook is going to be one of the most fascinating storylines in the NBA's buyout market. Westbrook still has the talent to be an effective asset for any team.
Although his time with the Lakers wasn't a success, Westbrook has shown before that a new start can be just what he needs. Before his time with the Lakers, Westbrook had shown he can still play at a high level while with the Houston Rockets and Washington Wizards.
Paul George is recruiting Russell Westbrook to the Clippers, per @ramonashelburne https://t.co/YVO2MKlrE9
Russell Westbrook will most likely weigh his decision carefully, as he's going to need to make sure he makes the right move. The Chicago Bulls and Miami Heat have been mentioned as two destinations for the 34 year old guard.
There are some interesting possibilities when it comes to the LA Clippers as well. Westbrook had success before playing alongside Clippers star Paul George during their time in Oklahoma City. Perhaps that could be enough to keep Russ in LA.