Lakers Trade: Russell Westbrook Set to Join LeBron James & Anthony Davis After Kuzma Trade

2019-20 champions Los Angeles Lakers were touted as one of the biggest favorites to retain their title. But injuries and questionable roster decisions meant that LeBron James and Co. crashed out in the first round of the playoffs.

The Lakers had two major problems, lack of a certified playmaker apart from LeBron James and woeful three point shooting. Struggling to create their own shots apart from LeBron and chucking up multiple three pointers in the process, the Lakers’ offense looked broken in the playoff series against the Phoenix Suns.

Jun 3, 2021; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis (3), forward LeBron James (23) and coach Frank Vogel react in the second half during game six in the first round of the 2021 NBA Playoffs against the Phoenix Suns at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Given the number of teams who have emerged as incredible competitors, the Lakers know they have to add the right pieces around the duo of LeBron James and Anthony Davis if they realistically want to compete for a championship.

Lakers on the verge of adding Russell Westbrook

After a disappointing season, GM Rob Pelinka knew he had to answer the issues in the roster. Pelinka and the Lakers certainly put in the work in the off-season with multiple rumors surrounding LeBron and Co.

Ahead of an exhilarating draft night, two massive trades have been announced recently. According to NBA insider Shams Charania, the Lakers have engaged in trade talks with the Wizards for a potential trade for Russell Westbrook.

The Lakers and Wizards are discussing a trade that would send Kyle Kuzma, Montrezl Harrell, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope for Westbrook, sources tell @TheAthletic @Stadium. The Lakers’ No. 22 pick in the Draft could be in play, too. https://t.co/RQOnlyVnBS

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 29, 2021

While the details are still not in, this could be a game changer for LeBron and Co. Westbrook is one of the finest playmakers and will certainly take some pressure off of LeBron James. He might have an enormous wage bill, but the all-round skill he brings to the table can potentially propel the Purple and Gold to a championship next season.

The Lakers have certainly made massive statements with this move. Given that their superstars are aging, they know that they have to zero in on their championship period. Given the number of players they have traded in the process, it will be fascinating to see who else they add to their roster. Will the Lakers’ big three win a championship next season?

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