Russell Westbrook Unfazed With Rumors Linking Him in Potential Kyrie Irving’s Trade

• Russell Westbrook has responded to rumors linking him in a potential trade for Kyrie Irving
• Irving requested a trade from the Brooklyn Nets and Lakers emerged as the front runners to acquire the guard
• Westbrook has been coming off the bench for most of this season, but he is not a good fit alongside LeBron James

Kyrie Irving dropped a bombshell on Friday when he requested a trade from the Brooklyn Nets. Irving asked the Bets to move him ahead of the February 9th trade deadline, or he will leave in free agency.

The Los Angeles Lakers quickly emerged as the likely destination for the wantaway guard, who is enjoying a great season as he was named to the 2023 NBA All-Star team.

If Lakes are to trade for Irving, it is highly likely that Russell Westbrook will be included. The 2017 NBA MVP has struggled in a Lakers uniform. However, he has been productive off the bench for the Lakers this season.

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Still, swapping Westbrook for Irving is a no-brainer. Irving is a better shooter and would significantly improve the 2020 NBA champions, making them a formidable team capable of making a run in the playoffs.

Westbrook on trade rumors

When asked about the rumors linking him with a trade, the 34-year-old admitted that he knows how the business works, according to ESPN.

"I've known this was a business since I was 18, 19 years old, since I got into it. My dad taught me that at that age, getting to this league is a business, and people make whatever decision they make. And I'll make sure I'm ready and professional, like I always have been and always will be."

If they want to get Irving, they will have to include both their 2027 and 2029 first-round picks in the package. Westbrook will also have to be part of the package for salary-matching purposes.

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Having a player earning $47.1 come off the bench is not ideal. Sending Westbrook and the picks means the Nets will send Irving and a Nets role player Joe Harris, according to the Athletic.

Westbrook makes history

Sports Brief earlier reported on Westbrook moving into the top 10 in the NBA all-time assists list. He surpassed NBA Hall of Famer Gary Payton.

Chris Paul (third) and LeBron James (sixth) are the only active players in the top 10. Westbrook currently leads all bench players in assists.

The former Oklahoma City Thunder guard now has a total of 8994 assists in his career.