There seems to be a crisis in Houston at the moment.
It has been reported that Russell Westbrook wishes to be traded and James Harden recently turned down an extension with the goal of being traded to the Brooklyn Nets.
Westbrook has not received many suitors during trade talks and rumours, with the Rockets adamant that they will keep Westbrook if they do not receive the right offer and have no problem with an uncomfortable locker room.
Despite all this, it is likely that Westbrook will be traded before the beginning of the season, and while he may not be traded to a contender there are three teams who certainly offer the best-case scenario in terms of a trade package and wanting to acquire the talents of the former MVP.
Washington Wizards
There have been rumours circulating that the Rockets and Wizards have both discussed the possibility of a swap involving Westbrook and Wizards star John Wall. This trade would be the best-case scenario for the Rockets if they wish to keep contending, as Wall is a proven leader and star. Despite not playing an NBA game since the 2018-19 regular season, Wall has showcased that he is a star talent and a team leader in the past.
This could potentially be a win-win scenario for both teams, as the Wizards would be receiving a quality star point guard in Russell Westbrook, who is certainly a better player than Wall and would slide in nicely next to Bradley Beal. The Rockets would also be getting a proven leader in Wall and barring any effects from the injuries he has sustained, Wall could provide them with an All-Star level talent.
New York Knicks
The Knicks are very interested in Westbrook, according to sources. However, the main issue here is whether they want to take on his salary. Westbrook is owed over $120 million USD over the next three seasons, which could be a turn off for a team trying to rebuild through the draft and free agency.
While the Knicks have certainly stated in the past that they are willing to take on the salary, it seems questionable as to whether it is a good idea. But, despite all that Westbrook would be a great pickup for the team as they have struggled to find a quality point guard. The Knicks would also hand the keys over to Westbrook, who would be able to control the plays and be the leader as he was in his MVP season with the Thunder where he truly shined.
(AP Photo/Nick Wass)
The Knicks would have to give up a package of young players and picks to acquire the guard, but it would be worth it if Westbrook can elevate himself to that MVP style of play once more.
Charlotte Hornets
This fit becomes questionable after the Hornets drafted LaMelo Ball in the draft, but it could still work. Michael Jordan is interested in Westbrook and has often sung his praises in the past. Ball is a 6’5 guard and could easily convert to the shooting guard position and learn from Westbrook.
The Hornets also have the cap space to fit Westbrook’s contract, and arguably can offer the Rockets the best deal for their future as they could package some future picks along with the likes of DeVonte Graham and Terry Rozier. Being traded to the Hornets, like the Knicks, would also give Westbrook the chance to be the number one option again and could provide the Hornets with a much-needed boost after they have struggled for some time.
It is no question that Westbrook wants out of Houston, and while the Rockets seem adamant that they do not mind keeping him despite his feelings, I predict he will be traded before the beginning of the season to one of the three teams listed above. Wherever his future takes him, Westbrook is no doubt going to bring talent and valuable leadership to any team he plays for.
Liam Clark
Roar Guru
Although I like that move, I think the Bulls are sticking with their backcourt of White and LaVine. Although, I have heard people throwing around the Magic as a destination which would be interesting
pm
Roar Rookie
Not sure why no one mentions Chicago. Could trade him for Porter and Thad Young. No assets just the salary dump.
Liam Clark
Roar Guru
Westbrook really did suit OKC, his contract seems to scare people off and rightfully so since he is an aging guard whose game involves a lot of athleticism. It would be interesting to see whether Beal and Westbrook would co exist. While it may be a risk, I could certainly see it working well for the Wizards who are also able to offload Wall. I was hoping he would end up with the Hornets initially, however with their drafting of LaMelo Ball I would like to see him go to the Knicks and dominate his way. He still has a lot of game left, and any of the teams listed would benefit from him. My dark horse team to go after him who I did not list would be the Pistons, however due to their draft day moves I do not think Russ fits into their plans.
Liam Clark
Roar Guru
If Westbrook isn't happy there, they do not have much choice. Wall has a similar contract so it would not be simply to clear his contract, and Wall may not come back the way he was before the injury however it is better than getting nothing in return. When there are dramas in the team and the player does not want to be there, then you're generally not going to get a lot for them. I personally think the Knicks or Hornets would be the best for Westbrook, while the Wizards or the Hornets would provide the Rockets with the best trade value.
astro
Roar Rookie
"Wall is a proven leader and star"...come on...not since 2016. In fact, we don't know if Wall is even able to play at an NBA level anymore! Trading Westbrook to the Wiz or the Knicks would simply be a moev by Houston to clear his contract...nothing more. Essentially they'd be giving up CP3 and the picks they included, for a year of Westbrook and nothing more. Surely they cant do that...
Rob
Guest
Would be interesting to see how Westbrook and Beal would work together. It could be a risky play for the Wizards though as the last thing they want is for Beal to go backwards after the best year of his career.
Willie La'ulu
Roar Guru
Imaging being so damn talented and gifted, yet so undesirable? This is legit, Russell Westbrook. His contract alone, scares teams out of their socks, but the way he is as a player and person, just is the icing on the cake. He really did suit OKC, the smaller market, with a bunch of role players in which he can shine and make better players. I would love to see him at Washington with Beal, but I feel Beal will suffer because of his style of play. New York makes the most sense for me, they can take on his contract, he can shine under the bright lights of MSG, and he can lead a subpar roster and essentially, play HIS way. Makes the most sense to me.