Russell Westbrook has been the subject of a lot of hate over the past few years.
After his relationship with the Houston Rockets deteriorated, the 32-year-old was traded to the Washington Wizards in return for John Wall.
Many thought he’d struggle alongside Bradley Beal, but the opposite ended up happening. He’s actually thriving in the role.
That said, while Westbrook is having a stellar individual campaign, the Wizards are still 23-33 on the year and he is currently on a 5-year, $206.8 million contract. That math doesn’t jive.
According to Greg Swartz of Bleacher Report, there is a decent likelihood that he gets moved in the offseason for that reason alone.
“While the Wizards should probably consider trading Bradley Beal while his value is at an all-time high, it’s worth examining the market for his backcourt mate first,” he wrote.
“The 2017 MVP is averaging 24.0 points, 12.4 rebounds, 12.4 assists, 1.2 steals, and shooting 44.3 percent over his past 18 games. Those are numbers few in the NBA can match. When Westbrook is in attack mode and not settling for jumpers, he’s still one of the most devastating offensive weapons in the NBA.
Ben Simmons making a late MVP run. https://t.co/bEHOeVbZg9
— Game 7 (@game7__) April 16, 2021
“The Wizards should be calling contenders who look to be desperate for a point guard upgrade after the playoffs (Los Angeles Clippers?) just to try to get off Westbrook’s contract.”
Aside from some weird air balls, Westbrook has had a great season. For a guy who is so conscious of his legacy, it’s nice that he was able to remind one and all that he still has it.
That said, there isn’t much of a place for him on this Wizards squad long-term.
Will that lead to a deal in the offseason? Time will tell.
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A graduate from the University of Texas, Anthony Amador has been credentialed to cover the Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys, San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks and high school games all over the Lone Star State. Currently, his primary beats are the NBA, MLB, NFL and UFC.
