A player in a Russell Westbrook trade who would really help the Lakers

If or when the Lakers trade Russell Westbrook, there is one player they could get in return who would fill a couple of big needs.

Make no mistake: the Los Angeles Lakers’ experiment with Russell Westbrook is all but over.

Although still a very good player, he has apparently worn out his welcome in L.A.

The Indiana Pacers have been mentioned as a potential trade partner who could have a legitimate interest in the nine-time All-Star. The two players mentioned as targets for the Lakers in a possible trade are guards Malcolm Brogdon and Buddy Hield.

Both could help L.A. right away, but the team already has a couple of talented guards, Kendrick Nunn and Talen Horton-Tucker, as well as the promising rookie Austin Reaves.

Where the Lakers really need help is in the frontcourt, and especially at the center position so that they will not have to put out such small lineups next season.

The Pacers have a center who can help L.A. in that regard if they’re willing to surrender him.