It's that time of year again. The NBA offseason, where reporters and pretty much anyone and everyone on Twitter throws a theory at the wall and sees if it sticks. On Wednesday, ESPN published an article discussing the aura of playing for the Los Angeles Lakers and whether or not that appeal still exists among today's superstars and rising, young talent. At the end of the piece, there is this one quote from an "executive" that caught our eye.
"They just need one big guy to go there, and the rest will follow. I expect [Russell] Westbrook and [James] Harden to join forces there when they become free. It definitely still has allure. It's still L.A., and they are still the Lakers. No free agent can question whether or not they will spend the money to win titles."
In the past, Westbrook has shot down any talk of breaking away from Oklahoma City Thunder teammate Kevin Durant. However, there will always be a lingering possibility of Durant playing for his hometown team, the Washington Wizards, when his contract comes to an end. If that does happen, where does that leave Russ? Going to the Wizards who already have John Wall or looking elsewhere? Maybe at his own hometown team: the Lakers.
Meanwhile, it appears Harden is building something special in Houston. But the Robin to his Batman, Dwight Howard, is constantly battling injuries and turning 30 in December. Plus, this past postseason proved Harden needs more pieces around him if they want a chance at an NBA title. Another year or two of disappointment and the thought of joining forces once again with Westbrook, especially in his hometown of Los Angeles, will seem more appealing than ever.
This whole rumor may appear impossible, but the more you think about it, the more it could possibly happen. For now, we'll just cross that bridge when we get to it.
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[via ESPN]
