Russell Westbrook could be traded if the Clippers don’t shape up, according to The Athletic’s Law Murray.
“The reality of this move is that Harden was brought in to ultimately replace Westbrook in the case that a partnership between the two players on the floor did not work,” Murray wrote.
“While Lue advocated for Westbrook, the Clippers front office has always preferred a point guard who is a theoretical fit with Leonard and George in terms of size and shooting ability.”
Many questioned whether the Clippers could make it work with James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, Paul George and Russell Westbrook, four players all accustomed to having the ball in their hands.
The early returns have not been encouraging, with the team losing their first five games since Harden’s arrival, before finally getting a win against Houston on Friday.
And while Westbrook could become the odd man out due to how the organisation perceives his fit within the team, he also hasn’t been doing himself any favours with his recent form.
After an efficient start to the season, Westbrook has shot 34.9 per cent from the field and 23.5 per cent from downtown over his last five games.
Having said that, incorporating Harden was always going to be a major adjustment, and everyone on the team should at least be given a chance to adjust.
READ MORE: Steve Kerr Hints at Lineup Change Amid Losing Streak