LAKERS SIGN RUSSELL WESTBROOK

(Courtesy of Sports Illustrated, 7/29/2021)

Lakers fan or not, it is undeniable that they are one of the hardest teams not to watch in the NBA.

In 2018 the Lakers signed Lebron James, then in 2019 they gutted their entire roster to trade for Anthony Davis. This team went on to win a title in 2020, which was discounted by several fans and outsiders, saying that “a title in the NBA bubble shouldn’t count.” Now, the Lakers are doing their best to get their respect.

Another piece of adversity the team faced was a first round loss to the Phoenix Suns in 2021 (mainly due to injuries and illnesses plaguing the team) in 2021. It was about this time that Lakers GM Rob Pelinka knew changes needed to be made. As soon as free agency came around, Pelinka made several moves changing the roster once more, and finally land Russell Westbrook.

In the trade for the Athletic Guard, the Wizards received Kyle Kuzma, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Montrezl Harrell, and the 22nd NBA draft pick (Isaiah Jackson, who was traded to the Indiana Pacers). After a blockbuster trade, the Lakers finally have their big three and are prepared to bring the heat this season and prove all other teams wrong about their 2020 championship title.

This deal left two more spots open on the roster which were almost immediately filled by Malik Monk and Carmelo Anthony.

The Lakers also signed Dwight Howard, Kent Bazemore, Wayne Ellington, Kendrick Nunn, Malik Monk, and Trevor Ariza. They also re-signed Talen Horton-Tucker, a young star who has performed well for them in clutch moments. Lastly, after the summer league, the Lakers signed Mac Mclung and Chaundee Brown.