Just when you thought NBA free agency would be all but done after Kawhi Leonard signed — which he agree to do with the Los Angeles Clippers on Saturday — there could be another blockbuster move coming.
Because the Oklahoma City Thunder dealt Paul George to the Clippers, it could mean they’ll also trade superstar guard Russell Westbrook to kick off a rebuild.
You know what that means — it’s time for another round of NBA fans using ESPN’s Trade Machine to come up with some amazing (and sometimes wacky) deals to get Westbrook and his giant contract to another team.
Here are a few that we found:
1. Westbrook pairs up with James Harden
There’s an ESPN report that says the Rockets are interested, but that they’re a “long shot.” But this might be the best return the Thunder can get.
2. Michael Jordan gets Westbrook
Not bad! The Thunder get some young assets, a couple of first rounders and a big expiring contract.
3. Windy City Westbrook
I think the Thunder need more than this back.
4. Westbrook to LeBron’s old team
Expiring contracts galore, but … eh.
5. Westbrook to the Heat
Our Nate Scott floated a similar deal involving Miami on Saturday with Goran Dragic, Kelly Olynyk and Bam Adebayo. Really, there are SO many ways to make this trade with the contracts Pat Riley has on his books.
6. Mark Cuban gets the point guard
Dallas would love this.
7. Westbrook to the Magic
Markelle Fultz is on the move again, and the Thunder get Aaron Gordon, too. An underrated trade.
8. Westbrook to DC
As the tweet says, lots of first-rounders go in this deal, but would Sam Presti really want John Wall back without seeing him post-Achilles first?
9. A three-team blockbuster
This would break Twitter for a day.
10. Westbrook to the Motor City
The Pistons would be good.
