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Charlotte Hornets: Pros and Cons of trading for Russell Westbrook

By Joshua Matthews

LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - AUGUST 04: Russell Westbrook #0 of the Houston Rockets dribbles against the Portland Trail Blazers during the first half at The Arena at ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on August 04, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
LAKE BUENA VISTA, FLORIDA - AUGUST 04: Russell Westbrook #0 of the Houston Rockets dribbles against the Portland Trail Blazers during the first half at The Arena at ESPN Wide World Of Sports Complex on August 04, 2020 in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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Charlotte Hornets, Russell Westbrook
Russell Westbrook. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

Charlotte Hornets: Cons of trading for Russell Westbrook

Now let us analyze why trading for Westbrook isn’t the best idea for the Hornets.

As I’ve previously stated, Brodie is not a great shooter from behind the arch, and in an ever-evolving NBA, it’s tough to look past that fact. The Hornets are already one of the worst teams in the league from behind the arc and adding a ball-dominant Westbrook could stunt the improvement of the three-ball for Charlotte. Now Westbrook may be good at playmaking and hitting open players on the perimeter but that’s just speculation until we see this in the games.

Another concern is that the Hornets may have to send the Rockets the number three overall pick and sending away a valuable asset may be detrimental to the future of the franchise. Sending away young talented players(or valuable picks) could be very bad for the youth of the Hornets rebuild.  With Terry Rozier, Devonte’ Graham, Miles Bridges, and PJ Washington creating a really talented young core, it may have a negative effect on these players’ progressions to take the ball out of their hands to give to Westbrook.

Lastly, fans are sceptical if Westbrook will really change the team’s success on the court. Off the court, Westbrook may be able to bring excitement to Charlotte’s culture but the Hornets really need to win on the court. Westbrook isn’t guaranteed to make the team much better and the real question is how far can lead the team into the post-season(if at all). Kevin O’Connor of The Ringer made the following statement on the rumours:

In conclusion: The Hornets need to be really careful when considering trading for Russell Westbrook, as there are pros and cons for getting the superstar. I think it would be exciting and the risk of getting Westbrook would be worth it in the long run of the franchise.

Next. Bring Anthony Edwards in at all costs. dark