The Cavaliers and Rockets reportedly discussed a trade that would send the former MVP to Cleveland.
Nothing like a trade rumor that did not work out and pops up after the fact, but that is what we have here. The Cleveland Cavaliers and Houston Rockets reportedly held trade discussions involving Russell Westbrook per Shams Charania on his Load Management podcast.
“The Rockets engaged with several teams on draft week, free agency week, whatever you want to call it. They talked to Washington about John Wall, which I reported, they talked to Cleveland I’m told.”
Shams Charania in regards to the Rockets trade discussions involving Russell Westbrook
Looking back at this trade that did not happen this may be a good thing. This is not about the talent of Russell Westbrook, but the overall talent level of the Cavs roster. Cleveland would be a better team, but they would lack depth and would have to trade away long term pieces. The Cavs are not really in a position to make such a big move that is more of a win now short-term decision rather than the team building process they should be sticking to.
At the end of the day, the Cavaliers need to build up depth and find their level. While trading for Russell Westbrook would make things more exciting in Cleveland, the Cavs would be back in the same boat relatively quickly.
