The situation between Russell Westbrook and the Los Angeles Lakers had become "toxic" in recent weeks, sources tell Sam Amick and Jovan Buha of The Athletic. 

There was a strong sense from the coaching staff that the Lakers might have to resort to waiving Westbrook if he was not traded at the deadline. The Lakers managed to trade Westbrook to the Utah Jazz on the eve of the trade deadline in a move that improves their depth. Westbrook will be bought out and he and the Los Angeles Clippers and Miami Heat have mutual interest. 

Coaches had grown frustrated with Westbrook's recent behavior and he was upset with being openly mentioned in trade discussions. 

Westbrook walked off the floor of Tuesday's game in the second quarter slowly and demonstratively, which led to a confrontation with Darvin Ham at halftime.