Russell Westbrook is relocating to the Eastern Conference, just not to the Knicks.
The former MVP will be shipped to the Wizards in a deal for John Wall, according to ESPN. It represents a swap of two former All-NBA point guards on bloated contracts who both requested trades from their respective teams.
Wall, 30, hasn't played in nearly two years after tearing his Achilles, and is guaranteed roughly $133 million over the next three years. Westbrook, 32, also carries injury risk on a surgically-repaired knee but was an All-Star last season averaging 27.2 points and seven assists. He has $133 million and three years remaining on his contract.
The Rockets also received a protected future first-round draft pick, according to ESPN.
It's unclear if Wall's acquisition will change the course of James Harden, who has also reportedly requested a trade from the Rockets. Westbrook's arrival in Washington, where he'll share a backcourt with Bradley Beal, will likely turn the Wizards into a contender for a playoff spot.
The Knicks had explored a Westbrook deal and had the cap space to absorb a huge chunk of Westbrook's contract. Even after filling the roster, they still have about $18 million in cap space remaining.
