No one is sure where Russell Westbrook will play next season but it’s becoming increasingly unlikely he’s still with the Los Angeles Lakers.
He was never a great fit with the Lakers lineup and the season ended in misery this week with them officially being eliminated from the playoffs.
Although things might not have worked out with Westbrook, he’s not as bad a player as some critics say.
That’s why he will likely find a new home in the league – possibly with the Charlotte Hornets.
Apparently, the Hornets are interested in possibly taking on Westbrook because he would maybe be a good fit to play alongside LaMelo Ball.
But there is another reason why Westbrook might go to Charlotte and it’s all about the man who owns the team.
Charlotte as a possible trade partner is something I had been wondering about, and according to Stein, so are some within the league.
Russ is a Jordan athlete, and I'm sure they wouldn't mind having him in a place he could be showcased a bit more. https://t.co/1CgwJaqZOB
— Harrison Faigen (@hmfaigen) April 7, 2022
As pointed out by Harrison Faigen, Westbrook is a Jordan athlete and has a deal in place with Nike’s Jordan Brand.
Since Jordan owns the Hornets, the idea of a star player associated with his brand on the floor makes perfect sense.
But will it happen?
Westbrook To Charlotte
Westbrook’s latest 10-year extension with Jordan Brand was signed back in 2017.
At the time, it was the most lucrative total endorsement deal for a Jordan athlete to date.
In that time, his star has diminished in the league a bit but he’s still a good player and there is hope that he will be back in fine form when he finds a team that fits him better.
Are the Hornets that team?
Charlotte better hope they can put a fire in Westbrook’s belly again and that he fits with Ball more than he did with LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
No matter how closely he’s associated with Jordan, the Hornets won’t want him unless he can turn things around.
NEXT: NBA Insider Shares Shocking Russell Westbrook Rumor