The Bill Simmons Podcast NBA Draftapalooza, Part 1: Westbrook to the Lakers and Hield’s Trade Upside With Ryen Russillo and Kevin O’Connor
Jul 29, 2021
Joined by sports analyst Ryen Russillo and basketball expert Kevin O’Connor, the trio dives into the buzz around Russell Westbrook's potential move to the Lakers. They analyze how Westbrook might fit into the team's dynamic with LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The conversation also explores Buddy Hield's trade value and the Sacramento Kings' management struggles. With trade scenarios swirling, they discuss the ripple effects on various teams and speculate about future moves that could redefine the league.
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Westbrook's Fit with the Lakers
- The Lakers adding Westbrook raises their ceiling but risks their spacing if AD plays at the four.
- LeBron at the four and AD at the five is crucial for this to work.
Hield Trade vs. Westbrook Trade
- Bill Simmons prefers a Hield trade over Westbrook, citing Hield's elite shooting and distressed asset status.
- Westbrook's history of playing with superstars without playoff success raises concerns.
Westbrook's Big Three Status
- Westbrook's playoff struggles and questionable late-game decisions raise doubts about his fit as a 'big three' player with LeBron and AD.
- His tendency to fill the stat sheet may clash with LeBron's dominant role.