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Lakers Trade Westbrook, Reacquire Russell Amid Shakeup

Multiple Deals Made as Deadline Approaches

Bryant Traded to Nuggets, Reed Acquired

LOS ANGELES (February 8, 2024) - The Los Angeles Lakers have shaken up their roster ahead of the NBA trade deadline, trading Russell Westbrook to the Utah Jazz and reacquiring point guard D'Angelo Russell.

In a separate move, the Lakers sent Thomas Bryant to the Denver Nuggets in exchange for Davon Reed and three second-round draft picks. Meanwhile, Dejounte Murray, who had been linked with a move to Los Angeles, will remain with the San Antonio Spurs after the Lakers' offer reportedly fell through.

The Lakers have struggled in recent weeks, and these trades show the team is attempting to shake things up in the hopes of improving their playoff chances.

With the addition of D'Angelo Russell, the Lakers regain a familiar face in the backcourt. Russell was a fan favorite in Los Angeles and had a solid season with the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2023-24, averaging 18.1 points and 6.4 assists per game.

Russel Westbrook's departure marks the end of an unsuccessful chapter for the Lakers. Acquired in a blockbuster trade in 2021, Westbrook never fully gelled with the team and his poor shooting and turnover-prone play became a major liability.

With just a few days remaining until the NBA trade deadline, the Lakers could still make further moves. Rumors continue to swirl regarding potential deals, but it remains to be seen whether they will be able to add any more pieces to help them in their quest for a championship.