The Los Angeles Clippers could be a potential destination for Russell Westbrook at the expense of Blake Griffin in what could be homecomings for both stars.
Westbrook has been the center of trade frenzy over the past few days following Kevin Durant's decision to join the Golden State Warriors. The latest trade scenario involving the All-Star point guard is a deal that would send him to his hometown Los Angeles for Clippers forward Blake Griffin as explored by Fox Sports' Rob Perez.
According to Perez, Westbrook, a California native, could become the star the Clippers need to be on equal terms of powerhouses in the league.
"Russell Westbrook is born and raised in Los Angeles, lives in LA during the offseason, loves the city, and will certainly be looking to join a championship-contending franchise the second his contract ends in Oklahoma City. The Los Angeles Clippers cover all the bases -- a title-ready roster lacking just one more superstar before they can make the jump to the air the Warriors, Cavaliers, and Spurs currently occupy," Perez wrote.
Some may think that Westbrook would not fit playing alongside Chris Paul as both thrives in their role as point guards. But Perez argued a backcourt duo of Paul and Westbrook may unlock the latter's true potential as an off-guard.
On the other hand, Griffin would also suit well playing for his hometown and a pivotal acquisition in OKC's rebuild.
"Blake Griffin is certainly worthy of carrying the weight of a franchise on his shoulders. But chronic injuries, inner-team turmoil and DeAndre Jordan's mammoth presence clogging up the paint are all factors that point to Blake needing a fresh start on a team where he can go back to being a ball-dominating offensive player," Perez noted.
Griffin has also been the center of trade talks in recent months, especially after a punching incident that caused him a broken hand. In his six season with the Clippers, Griffin has helped turn the team from the league's laughingstock into a legit title contender. However, Griffin and the rest of the Clippers' core of stars have yet to get past the semifinal round all their playoffs appearances.
The Clippers have been adamant about keeping Griffin, Paul and Jordan intact, but without any significant signing this summer, trading Griffin could be their next best option to remain a legit title contender.
Many believe Westbrook won't re-up with the Thunder this year, with cap limit for teams set to rise again in 2017, making a trade more likely for OKC in an attempt to get someone in return. Griffin seems a worthy trade target for the Thunder, but such deal could only happen if the Clippers show great interest in acquiring Westbrook.