Russell Westbrook Opts Out: Denver Nuggets Prepare for Future with Unrestricted Free Agent Status
Russell Westbrook, a 36-year-old veteran, has made the decision to opt out of his player option for the upcoming season with the Denver Nuggets, according to Marc Stein. This decision will make him an unrestricted free agent on June 30, and his player option was worth $3.5 million.
Westbrook spent just one season with the Nuggets, playing in 75 games and averaging 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game. The nine-time All-Star is six seasons removed from his last All-Star nod and won league MVP in 2017. Since leaving the Oklahoma City Thunder after the 2018-19 season, Westbrook has had a tumultuous journey around the league, from Houston to Washington to Los Angeles and most recently, Denver.
Westbrook's departure opens up cap space for the Nuggets as they continue to build around the core of Nikola Jokić and Jamal Murray in their quest for another title. After winning the championship in 2023, the Nuggets have lost in the conference semifinals the past two seasons to the Timberwolves and Thunder, respectively. In his lone postseason run with Denver, Westbrook came off the bench and averaged 11.7 points and 3.7 rebounds. The Nuggets went seven games with the Clippers and Thunder.
Before Denver, Westbrook was acquired by the Clippers in 2023 and had decent performances alongside Kawhi Leonard and Co. under Tyronn Lue's coaching. However, after James Harden arrived in LA, the old Thunder tandem proved ineffective, which led to Westbrook's exit. The Clippers traded Westbrook to Utah and acquired Kris Dunn before the Jazz waived Westbrook, who was acquired by the Nuggets shortly after. His free agency comes after Westbrook underwent surgery to repair two breaks on his right hand. While his next team remains unknown, the explosive guard is expected to be cleared by training camp.
Westbrook's decision to become a free agent has left many wondering where he will end up next season. With his impressive skills and experience, he is sure to be a sought-after player on the open market. Whether he stays in Denver or joins a new team, fans can expect to see Westbrook continue to make an impact on the court for years to come.
Westbrooks' decision to opt-out signals a bold step forward in his career, presenting the Denver Nuggets with an opportunity for rejuvenation and strategic roster adjustments while capitalizing on him remaining as quality unrestricted free agent.
