Most recent Lakers trade rumors have Russell Westbrook soon becoming a free agent

Per TNT and Bleacher Report's Chris Haynes, a rumored three-team trade involving the Jazz, Lakers and Timberwolves has D'Angelo Russell heading back to Los Angeles and Westbrook being cut after the trade is finalized.

While not at his 2016-17 MVP peak, Westbrook is still a valuable asset and could be a key role player for a playoff team this postseason.

He'd need to be willing to come off the bench, but that serves as the best option for Westbrook to extend his career.

Westbrook is averaging 15.9 points, 7.5 assists and 6.2 rebounds per game this season.

He began his career with the Thunder and has also spent time as a member of the Rockets and Wizards before being traded to the Lakers before the 2021-22 season.

The pairing of Westbrook, a ball-dominant guard, and James was awkward and the team failed to make the play-in tournament last season. Through 55 games of the 2022-23 season, Los Angeles (25-30, 13th in Western Conference) is in danger of failing to finish in the top 10 of the Western Conference for the second season in a row despite having James on its roster.

After being involved in countless trade rumors during the offseason and again in the lead-up to the trade deadline Thursday afternoon at 3 p.m. EST, Westbrook likely has hours left on his career with the Lakers. 

What he does at his next stop will determine how many more chances he gets.