Lakers GM Rob Pelinka Explains Reasoning Behind Trading Russell Westbrook

“When something’s not working as a general manager, it’s your job to fix it.”

Sports
15.5K 7 Comments

Last week’s NBA trade deadline saw many big moves made. One of the most talked about trades included the Los Angeles Lakers‘ decision to do a three-team trade to send Russell Westbrook to the Utah Jazz.

In a recent interview with SportsNet, Lakers GM Rob Pelinka spoke about why he decided to trade Westbrook. Throughout the season, fans have chimed in, expressing their opinions on whether or not Westbrook should stay with the Lakers. It comes as no surprise that Westbrook has had some unflattering comments directed to him while he was on the Lakers. With the trade, it only confirmed that the issues went beyond what was happening on the court. The new deal saw the Lakers gain D’Angelo Russell, Jarred Vanderbilt and Malik Beasley for Westbrook. Pelink gives a full explanation as to how he decided on the move stating,

“I think when we made the Russell Westbrook trade, we did it with the hope of bringing a championship, having a big 3. And clearly, we fell short of that. But when something’s not working as a general manager, it’s your job to fix it.

No one has a perfect track record. But when you feel like a team isn’t performing the way it’s supposed to you gotta rearrange the parts. And that was sort of what we did at the trade deadline.”

Despite discussing the trade, Pelink spoke highly of Westbrook, “Now that said, Russell Westbrook was a consummate professional and had great games as a Laker. And we enjoyed having him as a Laker.” Only time can tell if the Lakers will become a championship contender this year.

In other sports news, Giannis Antetokounmpo has filed for three trademarks.

Read Full Article

What to Read Next

Blockbuster NBA Deal Sees Dallas Mavericks Trade Luka Dončić to Los Angeles Lakers
Sports

Blockbuster NBA Deal Sees Dallas Mavericks Trade Luka Dončić to Los Angeles Lakers

Sending Anthony Davis to the Mavs.

Los Angeles Lakers Team Up With 'One Piece' for Limited-Edition Collaborative T-Shirt
Fashion

Los Angeles Lakers Team Up With 'One Piece' for Limited-Edition Collaborative T-Shirt

To be unveiled at game night on February 28.

Lakers Rally Fans to Support LA Wildfire Victims with Donation Drive
Sports

Lakers Rally Fans to Support LA Wildfire Victims with Donation Drive

Items can be dropped off during home games at Crypto.com Arena and at the Lakers UCLA Health Training Center in El Segundo.


LeBron James Becomes NBA Player to Score 50,000 Career Points
Sports

LeBron James Becomes NBA Player to Score 50,000 Career Points

“I’m super blessed to be able to put that many points up in the best league in the world with the best players in the world over my career,” said James.

On-Feet Look at Nike Dunk High "Gold Canvas"
Footwear

On-Feet Look at Nike Dunk High "Gold Canvas"

Arriving in Spring 2023.

Take a Sneak Peek at Netflix's 'PLUTO' Anime Adaptation
Entertainment

Take a Sneak Peek at Netflix's 'PLUTO' Anime Adaptation

Based on the ‘Astro Boy’ story “The Greatest Robot on Earth.”

Gramicci Takes Inspiration From California's Dynamic Landscapes for SS23
Fashion

Gramicci Takes Inspiration From California's Dynamic Landscapes for SS23

Introducing fresh prints and novelty fabrics.

A Four Season South Korean Remake of 'Breaking Bad' is in the Works
Entertainment

A Four Season South Korean Remake of 'Breaking Bad' is in the Works

Some are criticizing the trend of remaking shows from other countries.

BTS' Suga Announces Global Solo Tour
Music

BTS' Suga Announces Global Solo Tour

The first BTS member to hit the road on their own.


Ulysse Nardin Readies the Blast Tourbillon in Blue & Gold
Watches

Ulysse Nardin Readies the Blast Tourbillon in Blue & Gold

Starring a double X-shaped tourbillon cage and movement bridge.

Trophy Room and INDVLST LAB Come Together for a Screen Print Kit and Workshop
Fashion

Trophy Room and INDVLST LAB Come Together for a Screen Print Kit and Workshop

Celebrating Michael Jordan on February 23, 2023 (2/23/23).

Los Angeles Box Logo Tee Celebrating Supreme West Hollywood Store Opening Surfaces
Fashion 

Los Angeles Box Logo Tee Celebrating Supreme West Hollywood Store Opening Surfaces

A matching Box Logo Hoodie will also be released.

'Ted Lasso' Season Three Receives Official Release Date and Teaser
Entertainment

'Ted Lasso' Season Three Receives Official Release Date and Teaser

Returning to screens after more than a year.

Nike ACG Watercat+ Appears With a Clean Black and Orange Palette
Footwear

Nike ACG Watercat+ Appears With a Clean Black and Orange Palette

The modernized, water-focused model gets hit with a striking two-toned palette.

More ▾