NBA Trade Rumors: Should the Knicks consider a Russell Westbrook deal?

The good for the New York Knicks

Russell Westbrook’s 2021-22 Stats: 18.9 PTS, 7.8 REB, 7.7 AST, 1.1 STL, 0.3 BLK, 44.5 FG%, 30.9 3PT%

As I stated earlier, the Knicks lack stability at the lead guard position. Russell Westbrook, while not being his former self, is better than anything the Knicks have right now.

His stats would make Russ the Knicks’ leading scorer and assist man. Russ would also take attention off the Knicks’ two primary options in Julius Randle and RJ Barrett, leading to them getting high-quality shots.

Another positive is that the Knicks are getting a leader. The Knicks are currently led by Julius Randle whose relationship with the fans has soured. This has led Randle’s body language to deteriorate, sitting out of team huddles led by Knicks’ coach Tom Thibodeau. The Knicks have also kept Julius Randle from speaking to the media after the game, worried he would be ridiculed, making his mental state worse.

The Knicks need someone to bring some energy. Russ can provide leadership to the team’s youngsters and may even help Randle too.

I also doubt the Lakers asking price for Westbrook would be that high. Earning $44 million, with a player option in 2022 for $47 million, the Lakers lack leverage especially considering they’re below .500 and are currently 9th in the Western Conference.

A package of Evan Fournier, Alec Burks, and Kemba Walker may be enough to get the job done. Those are also three players that the Knicks are trying to offload at the deadline according to reports.