Lakers Trade

Lakers Trade Westbrook for D'Angelo Russell, Beasley, and Vanderbilt

Shake-up in Los Angeles

The Los Angeles Lakers have completed a blockbuster three-team, eight-player trade that sends former MVP Russell Westbrook to the Utah Jazz. In return, the Lakers reacquire guard D'Angelo Russell from the Minnesota Timberwolves and also acquire Malik Beasley and Jarred Vanderbilt.

The trade comes after weeks of speculation about Westbrook's future in Los Angeles. The 34-year-old point guard has struggled to find his place with the Lakers alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Westbrook averaged 15.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game this season but shot just 41.7% from the field and 29.6% from three-point range.

The Lakers hope that D'Angelo Russell, who spent three seasons in Los Angeles from 2015 to 2017, can provide a more consistent offensive threat alongside James and Davis. Beasley and Vanderbilt add much-needed depth to the Lakers' bench, with Beasley being a prolific three-point shooter and Vanderbilt a versatile defender who can play multiple positions.

The move is a significant step for the Lakers, who are now 25-30 and in 13th place in the Western Conference. The acquisition of three new players, all of whom are under 30 years of age, should give the Lakers a more youthful and athletic lineup.