Report: Lakers G Russell Westbrook out vs. Warriors / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports Credit Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Russell Westbrook will not play Thursday night against the Golden State Warriors, ESPN reported, amid speculation that the Los Angeles Lakers are mulling waiving, or trading the nine-time All-Star after one season.

Los Angeles Lakers / Schedule

Utah Jazz Los Angeles Lakers122-109 Los Angeles Lakers New Orleans Pelicans111-114 Los Angeles Lakers Denver Nuggets118-129 Phoenix Suns Los Angeles Lakers121-110 Golden State Warriors Los Angeles LakersFri02:00 Los Angeles Lakers Oklahoma City ThunderSat02:30 Denver Nuggets Los Angeles LakersMon01:30

Westbrook was added to the injury report Wednesday with right shoulder soreness and listed as questionable against the Warriors. He has played in 78 of 79 games this season.

Westbrook holds a $47 million player option for the 2022-23 season.

Earlier Thursday, The Stein Line reported that the Lakers haven't ruled out straight out waiving Westbrook and spreading out the $47 million over the next three years. Marc Stein reports the team is also considering trading Westbrook.

Westbrook last played Tuesday night against the Phoenix Suns and scored 28 points. After the game, Westbrook said the "plan" was to return to the Lakers next season.

"But nothing is promised. You kind of have to take it one day at a time each day. Like I've said all season long, you've got to play the cards you're dealt," Westbrook said.

Westbrook, 33, is averaging 18.5 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 7.1 assists with 10 triple-doubles in 78 starts. However, the Lakers have been eliminated from playoff contention with a team that did not jell. Further, the future of head coach Frank Vogel is uncertain.

The Charlotte Hornets have emerged as a trade partner for Westbrook, per reports.

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