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Where could Russell Westbrook end up next season? Indiana Pacers? Charlotte Hornets?

Planet Sport looks at the escape routes for former MVP Russell Westbrook after a disastrous first season with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Westbrook could never find a rhythm playing next to LeBron James and Anthony Davis, nor could he ever get on the same page as head coach Frank Vogel and other Lakers' staffers.
The 2016/17 MVP is under contract for one more season but is owed over $47million next season, which is sure to turn off opposing teams around the league given his decline in production.
However, there are a couple of scenarios that exist that could be beneficial for both sides.
Let's explore those options.

Indiana Pacers

The Indiana Pacers are looking into the possibility of landing the former MVP, as Malcolm Brogdon and Buddy Hield are touted as potential pieces heading the other way.
The trade would be excellent for the Lakers, as Brogdon can capably hit the 3-pointer and play off the ball, which would help space the floor for LeBron and company. He can also take on the assignment of guarding the opposing guards, which is pivotal when going up against other contending teams.
Hield will be exactly the shooting guard that could thrive next to LeBron, as all he needs to worry about is getting open, and LeBron could hit him with a pass.
For the Pacers, this helps clear cap space for the future, as Hield is under contract for two more seasons.
The Lakers would be clear winners in this trade, but the Pacers could benefit by having Westbrook on board for a season, as he'll help sell tickets and merchandise and could also serve as a great mentor to Tyrese Haliburton.
For this trade to happen, though, the Lakers would likely have to send draft picks.

Charlotte Hornets

Michael Jordan wanted Westbrook on the Charlotte Hornets just last season, and with the fast-paced nature of their offense, the 33-year-old could be an excellent fit on this team.
Westbrook could be the initiator this team is seeking with his knack for driving hard to the rim and attracting defenses, but he could also help keep the ball moving with his willingness to find his open team-mates, as the Hornets have several capable shooters on their roster.
Gordon Hayward would likely be the main piece heading to the Lakers but could actually be a very good fit as he can become more of a floor spacer next to LeBron and AD, which will serve him very well given his tendency to get injured.
Terry Rozier could also be included since the Hornets have to worry about extending Miles Bridges and LaMelo Ball, so if the Lakers can get Rozier, this would be a no-brainer, given Rozier's ability to hit the three and get to the rim.
If Rozier isn't included, then the Lakers could get Kelly Oubre instead, who would also give LeBron significant help as a scorer on the wings and as a 3-point shooter.

READ MORE: NBA news: Karl-Anthony Towns of Minnesota Timberwolves rises in MVP rankings

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