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Following yesterday’s news regarding Russell Westbrook’s request to get out of Houston, the Hornets have emerged as a potential trade partner for the Rockets. According to The Athletic’s Shams Charania, the Hornets’ blend of assets and interest could place them at the top of the pecking order.
Charania detailed the Hornets’ viability on Thursday:
The Hornets have emerged as a potential suitor for Rockets All-Star Russell Westbrook, sources tell our NBA Insider @ShamsCharania. pic.twitter.com/8hineXP3AN
— Stadium (@Stadium) November 12, 2020
In the video, Charania explained that the Hornets possess veteran contracts that make a trade involving hefty salaries possible. Outside of the assets, the potential for Westbrook, who is a Jordan Brand athlete, to play directly under Michael Jordan is enticing.
Westbrook averaged 27.2 points and 7.0 assists per game in his first season with the Rockets. The former UCLA standout is under contract through the 2022-23 season (the final year of that deal is a $47 million player option).