Lakers Trade Grades: Williams Misses A

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Post on Feb 06, 2025

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Lakers Trade Grades: Williams Misses A

The Los Angeles Lakers' offseason moves have been a whirlwind, generating significant buzz and diverse opinions. One trade, in particular, has sparked considerable debate: the deal (or lack thereof) involving Russell Westbrook. While the Lakers successfully moved on from Westbrook, the acquisition of D'Angelo Russell ultimately fell short of expectations for many analysts. Let's delve into the trade grades and dissect why the Lakers might have missed an A.

The Russell Westbrook Saga and its Aftermath

The Russell Westbrook experiment in Los Angeles officially ended. His tenure was marked by inconsistency and a less-than-ideal fit within the team's overall strategy. Getting rid of his hefty contract was a priority for the Lakers, and while they achieved that, the return wasn't universally lauded.

The Trade Details (and What it Lacked)

The Lakers traded Westbrook, along with a future second-round pick, to the Utah Jazz. In return, they received D'Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley, and Jarred Vanderbilt. While these players offer certain skills and fill specific roster needs, the overall return felt underwhelming to many, considering Westbrook's significant contract. Many hoped for a more substantial return, potentially including a first-round pick or a player with a higher ceiling.

Grade Breakdown: Why Not an A?

Many analysts and fans have given the Lakers a B+ or A- at best for this trade. An 'A' grade would signify a truly exceptional deal, exceeding all expectations. Let's analyze the reasons why the Lakers' trade fell short of that top mark:

1. Lack of a Significant Asset

The absence of a first-round pick in the return is a major point of contention. Given Westbrook's contract and the Lakers' championship aspirations, acquiring a future first-round pick would have significantly improved the trade's value and long-term outlook.

2. D'Angelo Russell's Consistency

While D'Angelo Russell is a talented point guard, his consistency has been a question mark throughout his career. His performance can fluctuate wildly, and his defensive capabilities are often criticized. While he addresses a need for playmaking, his overall impact might not be transformative enough to warrant an 'A' grade.

3. The Future Considerations

The trade's long-term impact is uncertain. While Beasley and Vanderbilt offer immediate contributions, they're not necessarily seen as foundational pieces for a championship-contending team. The future second-round pick holds minimal value compared to a first-round selection.

Could the Lakers Have Done Better?

The question remains: could the Lakers have secured a better deal? Potentially, yes. The trade deadline's frantic pace and the desperation to move Westbrook might have limited their negotiating power. However, a more patient approach and a willingness to explore other options might have yielded a more favorable outcome.

Conclusion: A Solid B+, But Not an A

The Lakers' trade to offload Russell Westbrook was a necessary move. However, the return, while serviceable, didn't reach the heights of an 'A' grade. The lack of a significant asset, questions surrounding D'Angelo Russell's consistency, and the limited long-term impact all contribute to this assessment. The move was a solid B+, a necessary step, but not the home run many hoped for. The Lakers' front office will now need to build upon this trade with further shrewd moves to bolster their championship hopes.