After almost a year of trade speculation, the Lakers have finally found a deal for Russell Westbrook. According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, the Lakers are trading Westbrook and a future first-round pick to the Utah Jazz as part of a three-team deal with the Minnesota Timberwolves. In return, the Lakers receive D’Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley, and Jarred Vanderbilt.
The former MVP has embraced his bench role with the Lakers this season, which will be key to extending his career. He leads all bench players in assists per game and is fourth in points per contest. He is bound to hit the buyout market considering that the Jazz are in a rebuild and have no fit for him. According to Bleacher Reports’ Chris Haynes, a buyout is the most likely solution for Westbrook.
Here are some teams that could use Westbrook this season should he receive a buyout.