Despite a rough season, the Los Angeles Lakers aren’t ready to move on from Russell Westbrook at all costs. While the Lakers are expected to consider trades for Westbrook, they won’t simply waive him nor send him home while waiting out his contract.
During their process to hire a new coach, Los Angeles has asked prospective hires how they would utilize Westbrook next season. Hiring a coach to handle that sensitive situation has been a priority for the Lakers during their search.
Westbrook is widely expected to opt in for the final year of his contract at just over $47 million for next season. That large of a salary, along with what is seen as Westbrook’s declining play, may make finding a trade partner difficult for the Lakers.
