Russell Westbrook Buyout Likely, New Suitor Emerges

BYAlexander Cole4.9K Views
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Los Angeles Lakers v Indiana Pacers
Russell Westbrook #0 of the Los Angeles Lakers has a few words for the fans during the game against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on February 02, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
Russell Westbrook is an interesting position right now.

Russell Westbrook has had a very difficult time since being traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. Overall, the Lakers weren't exactly the best fit for him. LeBron James is a ball-dominant player and he didn't mesh well with Russ. Consequently, Russ was sent to the bench by Darvin Ham and became a sixth-man for the team. While this seemed to work out at first, it became clear that the team could use some massive upgrades, altogether. Subsequently, this led to trade talks, and on Wednesday night, a deal finally got done.

Now, Westbrook is a member of the Utah Jazz. Additionally, the Lakers have gotten back players like Jarred Vanderbilt, Malik Beasley, and D'Angelo Russell. Overall, this is a great trade for the Lakers. Meanwhile, the Jazz have some big decisions to make. Although, it has been made clear by numerous reporters that the goal is to actually just buy out Russell Westbrook's contract. This would ultimately make him a free agent who could sign with anyone heading into the final stretch of the season.

Russell Westbrook Outlook

There have been numerous questions surrounding what kind of market is out there for Russell Westbrook right now. However, it seems like the market is actually a lot bigger than some are giving credit for. In fact, according to Chris Haynes of Bleacher Report, the Los Angeles Clippers have a ton of interest in signing Westbrook. They are on the verge of letting go of John Wall, so this would make sense. Moreover, the Chicago Bulls are also reportedly in on Westbrook. Needless to say, the veteran point guard is experiencing a lot of movement right now.

Today is a very big day for the NBA. Of course, this is because it is officially the trade deadline. Overall, the trade deadline can bring about some blockbuster moves. Many of these moves have already happened, as guys like Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant have been traded. That said, you can expect plenty more trades today. Let us know which trades you want to see, in the comments below. Additionally, stay tuned to HNHH for more news from the NBA world.

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About The Author
Alexander Cole
Alexander Cole is the current editor-in-chief of HotNewHipHop. He started at HotNewHipHop back in 2018 where he began as a Sports and Sneakers writer. It was here where he began to hone his craft, putting his journalism degree from Concordia University in Montreal, Quebec, to good use. Since that time, he has documented some of the biggest stories in the hip-hop world. From the Kendrick Lamar and Drake beef to the disturbing allegations against Diddy, Alex has helped HotNewHipHop navigate large-scale stories as they happen. In 2021, he went to the Bahamas for the Big 3's Championship Game. It was here where he got to interview legendary figures like Ice Cube, Clyde Drexler, and Stephen Jackson. He has also interviewed other superstar athletes such as Antonio Brown, Damian Lillard, and Paul Pierce. This is in addition to conversations with social media provocateurs like Jake Paul, and younger respected artists like Kaycyy, Lil Tecca, and Jeleel!
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