Lakers Star Russell Westbrook Fuels Trade Speculation With Latest Move

NBA experts predicted several different scenarios for the Los Angeles Lakers and most of them include a Russell Westbrook trade. The one-time NBA MVP found his spot in pretty much every trade rumor this offseason. Well, Russ is doing his best to keep these rumors alive.

The Lakers veteran has wiped his Instagram account ahead of the preseason opener. He sure picked the most awkward moment to do so.

Westbrook’s move was confirmed by several reports. Fans noticed it too. It’s interesting to note that the Lakers are still looking for a trade partner. Westbrook may be practicing with his teammates, but the Lakers stick to the original plan. The Indiana Pacers have been mentioned as a potential destination for Westbrook. Rob Pelinka will have to add two first-round picks to the trade offer.

Lakers to give up on first-rounders to seal a potential Russell Westbrook trade

The Lakers weren’t really interested in trading future first-rounders because they need these players to reshape and improve the roster. It seems like Pelinka has changed his mind. The front office will do whatever it takes to make things work even if it includes giving up on unprotected picks.

“One thing that needs to be made clear is a lot of speculation: Will the Lakers trade their picks? Will they not trade their picks?” Pelinka said at media day. “Let me be abundantly clear: We have one of the great players in LeBron James to ever play the game, and he committed to us on a long-term contract, a three-year contract. So of course, we will do everything we can, picks included to make deals to give us a chance to help LeBron get to the end. He committed to our organization. That’s gotta be a bilateral commitment, and it’s there.”

Westbrook doesn’t mind hearing all those rumors about his potential trade from LA. He is fine with whatever the Lakers decide. Trade him? Yes, it’s fine. His “job is to be a professional and show up to work” as usual.

Lakers head coach Darvin Ham likes Westbrook’s potential and even mentioned him as a potential starter in the upcoming season.