Lakers Talk Russell Westbrook Trade With Jazz

The Lakers have had exploratory trade talks involving guard Russell Westbrook with the Jazz in recent days, per Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports.

Los Angeles GM Rob Pelinka is exploring the market and looking for more help ahead of Thursday’s trade deadline, especially with the Lakers having shown some signs of improvement lately.

Pelinka already pulled off one deal, landing forward Rui Hachimura from the Wizards on Jan. 23. But the Lakers still feel as if they need to make another move, particularly for a perimeter shooter, Haynes reported.

It is not known what the Lakers may be seeking from the Jazz, or the Jazz from the Lakers, though it’s been reported that Utah shooting guard Malik Beasley is available. Beasley is shooting 36 percent on 3-pointers this season, just down from his 38 percent career mark.

But the Jazz want a first-round pick for Beasley and power forward Jarred Vanderbilt, per Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype. The Lakers have just two eligible to trade — their 2027 and ’29.

One rival GM told Hoops Wire he’s not sure either of those picks would move the needle. “I don’t even know if I’ll still be (the GM) here in 2027,” he said.

Westbrook is on an expiring contract and it’s believed the Lakers would like to move the deal before the deadline. They reportedly have also spoken to the Spurs, and sources told Hoops Wire they have talked with the Hornets within the past week.

Along with that, the Lakers continue to eye Pistons forward Bojan Bogdanovic, who remains a “principal target,” Haynes wrote. But the Pistons seem to be telling opposing teams they do not intend to trade Bogdanovic, which perhaps is their way of driving up the price.

Bonus episode of #thisleague UNCUT with co-host @TheSteinLine features Utah Jazz guard Malik Beasley who opens up about being on trading block, reveals teams he’s linked to, desiring invite to 3-Point Contest and much more. Enjoy: https://t.co/pJ7M7rUIuf

— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) February 3, 2023