NBA Rumors: Russell Westbrook could sign with Miami Heat if he is bought out
LA Lakers star Russell Westbrook finds himself in the middle of trade rumors yet again. With Bleacher Report's Eric Pincus presenting a potential trade scenario, the analyst also mentioned some interest from the Miami Heat in the nine-time All-Star.
Russell Westbrook has been a primary figure in trade rumors since the offseason. After a rather disappointing stint with the LA Lakers last season, the Purple and Gold inquired about several trade options to move Westbrook.
None of these trades panned out, and the the former OKC Thunder guard eventually found himself back on the Lakers' roster. However, this appears to be a positive sign for the team as Westbrook has been enjoying a bit of a career resurrection as of late.
But this hasn't put an end to any of the trade rumors involving Westbrook. The Lakers have actively been pursuing different pieces to improve their roster in the regular season.
With an emphasis on perimeter shooting, the Lakers have been involved in trade rumors with teams such as the Indiana Pacers and the San Antonio Spurs. While no trades have materialized, there has been a lot of chatter around the league.
In light of this, there appears to be some new buzz regarding interest from teams in Westbrook.
Bleacher Report's Eric Pincus came up with a rather interesting trade scenario that featured the LA Lakers, Detroit Pistons and the Brooklyn Nets.
With Westbrook being a key figure involved in the trade, Pincus presented several scenarios regarding a move for the star point guard. However, when speaking about a move that saw Westbrook land in Detroit, Pincus added an interesting bit of information to the mix.
He wrote:
"The Pistons probably don't view Westbrook, Beverley or Nunn as important rotation players and could look to trade whichever Lakers they receive. If Westbrook is bought out, the buzz around the league has him signing with the Miami Heat."
Report: Buzz around NBA has Russell Westbrook signing with Miami Heat if he’s bought out heatnation.com/rumors/report-…
The deal itself suggests that the Lakers could move their guard trio of Westbrook, Beverley and Nunn along with their two future first-round picks.
While Pincus noted that the Pistons may not be interested in retaining the veteran pieces coming in, he mentioned that the Miami Heat may pursue Westbrook after being bought out.
This in itself paints an interesting situation. With the Clippers managing to land John Wall in a similar fashion, the Heat could get Westbrook at a drastically reduced price.
Such a move could possibly be a game-changer for the Heat.
Russell Westbrook could be a difference-maker with the Miami Heat
The notion that Russell Westbrook could join the Miami Heat is nothing short of terrifying for teams across the league. Eric Pincus' proposed trade scenario has left a lot of room for speculation. However, should things play out as predicted, Westbrook could be the biggest winner in this situation.
Westbrook has enjoyed a career revival as a sixth man with the LA Lakers. With an average of 15.4 points, 7.7 assists, and 5.4 rebounds per game, the nine-time All-Star has become increasingly more productive and reliable for the team. All this, while being a fairly solid defensive presence.
Related: Reports: LA Lakers expected to play Russell Westbrook off the bench if he continues thriving
Should he join the Miami Heat, Russell Westbrook could undoubtedly help the team get over the hump.
With a mentality that matches the culture in Miami, Westbrook would find himself in a position to run free and facilitate the offense quite well. While additionally considering his recently improved 3-point shooting, the guard has every avenue to shine in Miami.
However, the fit itself isn't completely flawless. Russell Westbrook may end up locking horns with Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo more often than not. While also considering the flow of Miami's offense as a rule, the guard could face a greater challenge with assimilation.