Following the NBA trade deadline, the LA Clippers solved many of their issues. They improved their guard depth, added a backup center, and ultimately boosted their chances of winning the championship. However, the front office failed to acquire the ‘true’ facilitator they sought.
Furthermore, one player on the market who had been traded at the deadline was the Utah Jazz point guard Russell Westbrook. From a broad perspective, his tenure with the Lakers did not work out how it was supposed to. After being dealt, rumors began to rise that Westbrook would secure a buyout with Utah and sign with a team of his choice.
That said, NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski recently reported that the former MVP has found a buyout with the Jazz and is planning on signing with the LA Clippers. This is excellent news, as he brings a level of intensity and experience that the team desperately needs.
After finalizing a contract buyout with the Utah Jazz, nine-time All-Star guard Russell Westbrook plans to sign with the Los Angeles Clippers, his agent Jeff Schwartz of @excelbasketball tells ESPN. pic.twitter.com/OjZ0Mkuz5x
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 20, 2023
Russell Westbrook could easily fit in with the LA Clippers.
After multiple superstars were traded into the Western Conference, acquiring Russell Westbrook gives the LA Clippers the best chance at winning it all. Not to mention the Clippers’ star duo, Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, made it very clear that they wanted Westbrook back in LA.
“If there is somebody out there — Russell [Westbrook] — if it makes sense and it goes with our team, we’re all for it… Hopefully Russell sees this and we figure something out.”
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) February 11, 2023
Paul George on the Clippers adding a traditional point guard pic.twitter.com/vvox3xTTFU
Prior to his time with the Lakers, Westbrook showed quite the promise with the Washington Wizards. On top of averaging 22.2 points, he grabbed 11.5 rebounds and notched 11.7 assists. These numbers prove that he can still make an impact on the NBA level and that he needs the right opportunity to succeed.
That said, Westbrook signing with the LA Clippers could either guide them to the NBA Finals or hurt their chances of contending significantly. At this point in the season, only time will tell where the Clippers are headed in their race to make history.