Lakers coach Darvin Ham continues to publicly support Russell Westbrook despite the franchise bringing in several point guards over the offseason and ramped speculation about a looming trade.
“He’s ours,” Ham said of Westbrook. “…and we love him.”
Details on Lakers’ Trade Talks
Los Angeles engaged in trade talks with Indiana about a Westbrook trade multiple times during the offseason and as recently as right before the start of training camp, according to a report by The Athletic. The Lakers have contemplated sending Westbrook, along with two first-round picks (2027 and 2029; both unprotected), to the Pacers in a deal for Myles Turner and Buddy Hield. Talks seem to have gotten serious and the Pacers’ stance on needing both of those first-rounders may be preventing a deal from taking place.
The Athletic also reports that Rob Pelinka has the authority to make the final decision for the Lakers, though the process is considered a collaborative approach between him, Joey Buss, and Jesse Buss.
More NBA Buzz
- Evan Mobley will miss one-to-two weeks with a right ankle sprain, according to the Cavaliers. With that timeline, Mobley’s status for opening night (October 19) could be in question.
- Kevin Love, who will likely see more minutes early on if Mobley is sidelined, is praising the team ahead of the 2022-23 season, noting the good vibes in Cleveland. “It’s one thing to say and it’s one thing to actually see it live here. More than anything, guys have a willingness to just listen, able to really communicate at a very high level. I think that all starts with (coach J.B. Bickerstaff) but trickles down through the coaching staff. I think we just have very, very high character people, let alone players, out here with us. I think we’ve gotten better every practice so far.”
- Ben Simmons returned to a basketball court on Monday night, suiting up for the Nets against the Sixers. “I’m grateful just to be able to step on that floor,” Simmons explained. “Step on an NBA floor again. I had a lot of fun out there.” The former No. 1 pick scored six points while adding five assists, four rebounds, a steal, and two turnovers.
- In that same game, Tyrese Maxey shined in 14 minutes of play. The point guard had a game-high 20 points (6-for-8 shooting) while adding three assists, one steal, and one block.
