Lakers Rumors: Russell Westbrook Trade Talk, Drew Gooden Buzz and More

The Los Angeles Lakers have built a strong foundation for their rebuild, highlighted by the addition of Brandon Ingram with the second pick in the 2016 draft. However, they must still make a major splash either through free agency or the trade market in order to start moving toward title contention.

Along with Ingram, the presence of D'Angelo Russell, Jordan Clarkson and Julius Randle should give the fanbase reason for optimism. The question is whether any of those players is capable of becoming the face of a championship team like LeBron James or Stephen Curry.

Los Angeles' front office may want to wait another year before making that determination. It may be forced to make a quicker decision depending on which opportunities arise this summer, though.

Let's check out some of the latest buzz around the franchise.

 

Could Lakers Target Russell Westbrook?

Westbrook is exactly the type of cornerstone the Lakers need. He ranked fourth in Value Added last season behind only James, Curry and James Harden, according to ESPN's Hollinger Stats. Pairing him with Ingram would give the team a potentially dynamic one-two punch.

The question is whether they can pry him away from the Oklahoma City Thunder in the wake of Kevin Durant's exit. While it's a long shot, OKC finds itself at a crossroads, and it seems like the perfect time for L.A. to at least explore the option.

ESPN's Brian Windhorst reported that multiple league executives believe the Thunder will at least listen to offers if the superstar point guard won't extend his contract during the offseason. And David Aldridge of Turner Sports noted that it doesn't appear he's interested in a new deal right now:



It could be time for the Lakers to pounce.

Zach Lowe of ESPN pointed out that the front office could try waiting until the guard entered free agency and attempt to sign him without gi...

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