4 teams desperate enough to help Lakers trade Russell Westbrook
By Nick Halden
2. Detriot Pistons
The Pistons’ direction is clear, the team is acquiring draft picks in exchange for veterans and focusing on rebuilding around their young star. Already the team sent Jerami Grant to Portland in exchange for future draft picks.
At the very least the Lakers should check as to whether or not the team would be willing to do the same trade in reverse. Take on a veteran player in Russell Westbrook along with draft picks.
The Pistons certainly have the cap space without having to make many moves and Westbrook would fit in their rotation. Moving Grant signals that this team doesn’t believe they can win this season.
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With this in mind, why wouldn’t they be willing to take on Westbrook? With Westbrook headed into the final year of his deal, the Pistons would be acquiring a one-year rental in exchange for draft compensation from the Lakers.
One potential issue with this move is Cade Cunningham’s development, his play style won’t be a great fit with Westbrook. That one concern is noteworthy and could keep the Pistons from seriously considering the deal despite the chance to add future draft picks.
Westbrook cannot start the season on the Lakers roster and if that means the team has to spend one or both of its remaining draft picks to move Westbrook they should be more than willing to do so.