NBA Rumors: Chicago Bulls interested in securing Russell Westbrook's services if he agrees buyout with Utah Jazz
NBA rumors as of late have seen the Chicago Bulls linked to Russell Westbrook again. However, activity at the trade deadline forced a drastic change in circumstances as the Bulls are expected to pursue Westbrook from the Utah Jazz in case of a buyout.
The trade deadline activity has been nothing short of exciting. A blockbuster trade involving the LA Lakers, Utah Jazz, and Minnesota Timberwolves resulted in Westbrook joining the Jazz.
While the change of scenery could be positive for the nine-time All-Star, he isn’t expected to stay in Utah for too long. The Jazz may consider buying out Westbrook's contract, thus making him available on the market.
As per Yahoo! Sports' Chris Haynes, should the Jazz buy out Westbrook's contract, the Chicago Bulls could pursue the guard.
The Bulls were viewed as potential suitors for Westbrook in the month of January as well. However, this was viewed primarily as a trade scenario, which involved the Lakers pursuing Zach LaVine and Nikola Vucevic.
The Chicago Bulls are interested in signing Russell Westbrook should he secure a buyout with the Utah Jazz, league sources tell @NBAonTNT, @BleacherReport. twitter.com/i/web/status/1…
LA Clippers and Miami Heat show interest in Russell Westbrook
Former LA Lakers superstar Russell Westbrook was one of the most common names in trade rumors over the course of the season. Teams such as the Chicago Bulls and Charlotte Hornets showed interest earlier on. However, it was the Utah Jazz that managed to land the guard.
Westbrook was traded to the Jazz as part of the a three-team deal including the Minnesota Timberwolves as well. In the process of moving Westbrook, the Lakers received D’Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt and Malik Beasley.
Meanwhile, Westbrook finds himself on the way to Utah alongside the Lakers’ 2027 first-round pick, Juan Toscano-Anderson and Damian Jones.
While the Bulls are expected to make a move for Russ if he's made available, some sources have suggested that they will face some competition.
As per Chris Haynes, the LA Clippers could join the race for Westbrook. Considering their need for a guard, the Clippers' interest makes sense.
Although he is turnover-prone, he is a solid playmaker and on-ball defender. While also considering the rumors surrounding the Clippers’ attempts to trade John Wall ahead of the deadline, Westbrook could be of a lot of value to the team.
Meanwhile, the Miami Heat have also been linked with Westbrook. Russ could certainly be beneficial for the Heat, given his aggressive playing style and mentality.
However, all of these potential moves depend on whether the Jazz buy out Westbrook's contract.