Russell Westbrook addresses trade rumors, reacts to Kyrie Irving-Lakers speculation / News - Basketnews.com

Russell Westbrook is not feeling added pressure hearing his name in Kyrie Irving trade rumors. Meanwhile, LeBron James says that's a Rob Pelinka question to assemble the roster.

Credit: AP – Scanpix Credit AP – Scanpix

The Los Angeles Lakers have been involved in heavy trade rumors since Kyrie Irving requested a trade from the Brooklyn Nets ahead of the February 9 deadline.

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The Purple & Gold could offer the Nets a package that focuses on nine-time All-Star Russell Westbrook.

"The framework of a potential deal would be Russell Westbrook and the Lakers' 2027 and 2029 first-round picks — with the Lakers pushing to add lottery protection to at least one of them — in exchange for Irving and another Nets role player (likely Joe Harris)," The Athletic's Jovan Buha earlier reported.

Nevertheless, Westbrook is not feeling added pressure hearing his name in trade rumors leading up to Thursday's deadline. He says he's well aware of the NBA business and will remain professional throughout the process.

"I do not [feel pressure]," Westbrook said. "That's not up to me. Like I said, I've known this was a business since I was 18, 19 years old, since I got into it. My dad taught me that at that age, getting to this league is a business, and people make whatever decisions they make. And I'll make sure I'm ready and professional, like I always have been and always will be."

The 34-year-old guard averages 15.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 7.6 assists over 50 games this season. His points contribution is the lowest since his rookie season in 2008-09.

Westbrook's colleague in L.A. -- LeBron James -- also commented on Irving and if Kyrie can make the Lakers a contender: "That's a Rob [Pelinka] question. You got to see him when y'all get back to L.A. I've told y'all a couple weeks, I don't speak for our front office.

My mindset is whatever lineup or whatever group that we have is to make sure we prepare ourselves the best way we can to go out and win. Obviously, that's a -- what's the word you use -- 'Duh' question when you talk about a player like that," James said.

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