Clippers, Knicks or 76ers? Which team will Russell Westbrook play for if he leaves Houston Rockets
The NBA offseason has well and truly begun. Houston Rockets star Russell Westbrook wants to take his talents elsewhere, according to The Athletic's Shams Charania. With just a month left for the new season, the news comes as a blow for the Rockets. It has been a slew of changes for the side after their second-round playoff exit in the previous edition having lost to the Los Angeles Lakers. Although, the silver lining at the moment is James Harden is still intent to turn up for the Rockets.
"Westbrook has informed team officials that he has been uneasy about the team's accountability and culture, and wants to join a team where he can have a role similar to his prior, floor-general role in Oklahoma City," according to Charania. Former coach, Mike D'Antoni is now replaced by Stephen Silas, while their GM, Daryl Morey has now gone on to the Philadelphia 76ers front office and has expressed his interest in picking up Harden to play for the team.
While the Rockets will be looking at persuading Westbrook to stay, the news will be a boon for other teams looking to lap up the point guard. Here are five sides that could use Westbrook in their ranks:
Los Angeles Clippers
Bit of a crash and burn season for the Los Angeles Clippers in the last season. Kawhi Leonard was undoubtedly their superstar, but to have another shot at the title, they could use a man like Westbrook. The nine-time All-Star and one of the league's most explosive athletes will be a cinch for them, although the trade won't come easy. With the upcoming season likely to be Paul George's last with the team, Westbrook comes in as a major upgrade. There are flaws, but they could work that out.
New York Knicks
This is keeping in mind the interest the team has expressed in adding him to the roster. For starters, they have the cap space to accommodate him. The Knicks could also be a potential playoff team from the East with talent in Mitchell Robinson and RJ Barrett on the side. They haven't had glory days since 2013 and this might be their chance.
Philadelphia 76ers
For Daryl Morey, Harden staying put at the Rockets isn't really a loss now that Westbrook is potentially free. Plus he did it once anyway. The lack of a promising point guard has hurt the Sixers this edition and while Westbrook isn't exactly Allen Iverson, he can be a dangerous replacement. Pair him with Ben Simmons and that's a side with some quality talent. As far as the purse goes, the Sixers can trade off a bunch of players like Matisse Thybulle and maybe there can be a lot of sorts.
Who do you think Westbrook should be joining?