LA Lakers Trade Rumors: JJ Redick says Russell Westbrook to Utah Jazz for Mike Conley "close to being done"
Now that LeBron James has broken the all-time scoring record, the LA Lakers (25-30) can shift their focus back to this season. With one day to go until Thursday's trade deadline, they are running out of time to make any more upgrades.
Dating back to the offseason, many expected the LA Lakers to move on from Russell Westbrook. Even though he's had success in a bench role this year, he is still not a clear fit on the roster. Since he's in the final year of his contract, the team might still try to get a return on their investment before the deadline.
During a recent episode of "The Old Man and the Three," former player JJ Redick gave some insight into a possible trade for the Lakers. He said that a deal centered and Westbrook and Mike Conley of the Utah Jazz is almost done.
"I'm not breaking news here, but by the time we release this episode it could be done, and that's the Russ to the Jazz for Conley," Redick said. "I've heard that's getting close to being done."
Conley, 35, is one of the few veterans left on the Jazz roster. Seeing that they're heading for a rebuild, he was a name many expected to be moved. Through 43 games this season, Conley is averaging 10.7 points, 2.5 rebounds and 7.7 assists.
Does adding Mike Conley make the LA Lakers better?
Similar to the Rui Hachimura trade, adding Mike Conley is not a huge splash for the LA Lakers. Even so, it is a move that helps them get closer to being a respectable playoff team this season.
Even in his late-30s, Conley has proven he can still be a contributor in the NBA. Along with producing on offense, he gets it done on defense as well, averaging 1.0 steals per game.
From a fit perspective, Conley makes much more sense for the Lakers than Russell Westbrook. For starters, he is someone who can easily co-exist on the floor with LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
The biggest upgrade Conley brings is outside shooting. So far this season, he has knocked down 36.2% of his 3-pointers while attempting 5.0 per game. That volume and efficiency should help space the floor for the Lakers' duo.
Most importantly, Conley is a point guard who can be effective with or without the ball in his hands. He can initiate offense himself or be a reliable kick-out option from deep. It might not be a big name, but it could be a step in the right direction for the LA Lakers.