The Los Angeles Lakers could be set to make a highly surprising U-turn with their decision to keep their big three together after reports have emerged that the team are hesitant to make a move.
It comes after both Russell Westbrook and Anthony Davis have been used in new roles, and whilst the Lakers are seemingly positive in their direction moving forward - this has not transpired into wins on the court, with the Lakers sitting with the worst record in the NBA (2-9). This record with the likes of LeBron James, Westbrook and Davis on the roster would have been beyond imaginable 18 months ago, but the team has been on a steady decline since Westbrook joined last summer.
A report from Bleacher Report suggests that the Lakers are pleased with Russell Westbrook in his new role, stating that he is 'thriving'. Since being the first-man off the bench, also known as the sixth man, Westbrook has spent less time on the floor with LeBron James, which has allowed him to be used in his best role - ball dominant, driving to the rim whilst spacing the floor with shooters.
However, it has not been good enough for the team to rack up victories - only winning two of their 11 games, coming against the highly injured New Orleans Pelicans and Denver Nuggets.
Westbrook has been the topic of trade discussions for weeks, with Charlotte Hornets' Terry Rozier being linked, whilst most recently, Washington Wizards superstar Bradley Beal has been a potential option. Elsewhere, Myles Turner and Buddy Hield (Indiana Pacers) have both been mentioned as possible trade candidates.
But it appears a move for Westbrook is unlikely, along with Davis. He has expressed that he is being used in a position that is not his preferred with the Lakers, with news emerging last week that he could be moved in order to build the team around James.
However, the report suggests no talks have taken place and Davis would not be moved - unless the Lakers were offered a haul, an unlikely scenario with Davis' recent injury history.
James remains playing at a superstar level, and will not want to waste the remaining years of his career playing with a lowly side, but did sign an extension to remain with the team this past summer, keeping him in Los Angeles until 2024 - the year when his son, Bronny James, is set to enter the NBA.
