Russell Westbrook Trade Talks Get Huge Update

BYAlexander ColePublished on November 22, 202223.7K Views

Russell Westbrook #0 of the Los Angeles Lakers celebrates his inbound pass resulting in a last second three pointer from Lonnie Walker IV #4 to end the first half against the Detroit Pistons at Crypto.com Arena on November 18, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2022 NBAE. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

Russell Westbrook has been playing well off of the bench.

Russell Westbrook has been one of the most scrutinized players in the entire league over the past couple of seasons. Of course, this mostly has to do with the fact that he hadn't been great for the Lakers. With the team struggling, many felt like Russ needed to be traded.

Consequently, Darvin Ham decided to put Westbrook on the bench. As a sixth man, Russ has actually excelled, and over the last few games, the Lakers have looked pretty good. Additionally, there is now an improved narrative around Russ, with many seeing value in the star.

Russell Westbrook #0 of the Los Angeles Lakers celebrates after a slam dunk against Kevin Durant #7 of the Brooklyn Nets during the second half of the game at Crypto.com Arena on November 13, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)

Russell Westbrook Trade Talks

As we noted recently, teams were beginning to call the Lakers about Russ. This is a stark contrast to earlier in the year when the Lakers couldn't pay teams enough to take on that contract. The tables have officially turned, which is good news for the purple and gold.

According to HoopsHype's Michael Scotto, the Lakers are officially closing trade talks regarding Russ. Originally, they were welcoming offers, but with Westbrook playing well, the team is going to ride it out with their point guard. Overall, the Lakers don't want to mess with a good situation.

Russell Westbrook #0 of the Los Angeles Lakers brings up the ball during a 128-121 Lakers win over the Detroit Pistons at Crypto.com Arena on November 18, 2022 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

As it stands, the Lakers are 5-10 on the season. That is by no means a good record, however, the team is improving. Anthony Davis looks good, and while the team is in tough on this upcoming stretch, they have a chance to make some noise.

Stay tuned to HNHH for more news and updates from around the basketball world.

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About The Author

Alexander Cole

Alexander Cole is the current Managing Editor of HotNewHipHop. He started at HotNewHipHop back in 2018 where he began as a Sports and Sneakers writer. During this time, he has shown an expertise in Air Jordans, Yeezys, and all things that have to do with Nike. His favorite kicks are the Air Jordan 1 High OG, the Air Jordan 4, the Air Jordan 6, and the Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 in the "Beluga 2.0" colorway. Although his collection might not be the biggest, he is always looking to add new styles to it. When it comes to sports, Alex has a particular interest in the NBA and the NFL. His favorite teams are anywhere LeBron goes, and the Kansas City Chiefs. As a Montrealer, the Montreal Canadiens hold a special place in his heart, even if they haven't won the Stanley Cup in his lifetime. Alex also works for the Concordia Stingers, where he provides play-by-play and color commentary for the football, hockey, and basketball teams His favorite hip-hop artists are Kendrick Lamar, Playboi Carti, Travis Scott, and Lil Uzi Vert.