The 7-player, 3-team trade that ends Crowder and Westbrook speculation

The Los Angeles Lakers rid themselves of Russell Westbrook, acquire a new starting center and two rotational pieces.

It’s just as much about Westbrook’s negative value to the Lakers as a player, as it is about his expiring $47 million contract. Here’s how the deal plays out for them:

Los Angeles Lakers Receive: Myles Turner, Jae Crowder and Torrey Craig 

Los Angeles Lakers give: Russell Westbrook, Unprotected 2027 First-Round Pick, Top 5 Protected 2029 First-Round Pick

Most would evaluate that the Lakers need to attach a first-round pick to free themselves of Westbrook’s contract, so let’s equate that with the 2029 top five protected pick. That means they’re giving up an unprotected 2027 first-round pick for Turner, Crowder and Craig, three players that can really help them this season.

Turner could fit straight into the starting lineup, thus allowing Davis to return to his more comfortable role at power-forward. The duo would be an incredibly potent pairing on defense, while Turner’s ability to stretch the floor would make up for Davis’ declining jumpshot, and open up the paint for he and James.

They could also go small and return Davis to the five with Crowder coming in for Turner. Either way, the veteran forward provides important wing depth as someone who can play 25-30 minutes per game. Craig could also come in and fill a role for 10-15 minutes as another defensive-minded wing.

They don’t get Hield in this deal; his shooting would be handy, but they’re also stacked at the guard positions with the likes of Patrick Beverley, Kendrick Nunn, Dennis Schroder and Lonnie Walker IV.

The Lakers are giving up their future firsts here, but they’ll back themselves to remain competitive in 2027 and there’s protection on the 2029 pick anyway. They’re also cutting about $13 million in player salary, while the three acquisitions are all on expiring deals which preserves their cap space for the offseason.