Russell Westbrook unfazed by trade rumors amid speculation about his inclusion in a deal for Kyrie Irving
LA Lakers guard Russell Westbrook is unfazed by trade rumors circling his possible departure amid the team's trade interest in Kyrie Irving. The deadline is Feb. 9, and the Lakers are looking increasingly likely to move Westbrook as the team's struggles continue this year.
The former MVP has improved his play after moving to the bench, but his skill set isn't what the Lakers need right now. Westbrook is also inconsistent and inefficient, especially on offense.
His $47 million contract gives the team a chance to upgrade their roster, and with an asset like Irving available, the Lakers may finally move on from Westbrook. However, the nine-time All-Star isn't feeling the pressure of being involved in trade rumors. Here's what he said after the Lakers' 131-126 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans (via Spectrum SportsNet):
"I've known this was a business since I was 18 or 19 years old."
"I've known this was a business since I was 18 or 19 years old." Russell Westbrook says he feels no added pressure with his name in trade rumors and he understands that this is a business. https://t.co/3Agqb0Hn8d
The LA Lakers have contemplated trading Russell Westbrook as they will have to part ways with their remaining two first-round picks (2027 and 2029) of the decade. However, rumors suggest the Lakers wouldn't mind using those assets if a bona fide superstar becomes available.
Kyrie Irving is on the market, and this seems like an ideal time for the Lakers to go all-in on their pursuit of another championship win.
Russell Westbrook benched in the clutch against Pelicans
After rumors emerged about the LA Lakers' interest in trading for Kyrie Irving, Russell Westbrook almost got sidelined before the team's game against the Pelicans. The team cited non-Covid illness as the reason. However, Westbrook played the game.
The former OKC star had a decent first half as he bagged 12 points on 5-of-7 shooting overall and 2-of-2 shooting from beyond the arc. However, Darvin Ham only played him for six minutes in the second half. Westbrook played 58 seconds in the fourth quarter and got benched the rest of the way.
Speculation had risen that this move was related to Westbrook potentially being involved in the trade for Irving. Westbrook has had his moments in the Lakers uniform this year, but consistency has been an issue all year.
He hasn't played like the superstar he was expected to be, hampering the team's chances of contending for a championship. The Lakers stuck with him this season but could soon take a U-turn as their chances of qualifying for the playoffs look grim. They are 13th in the West with a 25-29 season record.