Say what you will about the inefficient shooting and untimely turnovers, but Russell Westbrook is an all-time great. He’s a nine-time All-Star, MVP, and has led the league in scoring and assists multiple times.
However, it seems that the NBA has passed him up. This summer, he was an unrestricted free agent after a resurgent year with the Denver Nuggets, once again proving that he can be a valuable, winning player.
Despite averaging 13.3 points and 6.1 assists last season, Westbrook remains unsigned as training camps start. He has only seriously been linked to the Sacramento Kings and Milwaukee Bucks.
‘Weird’ Situation Surrounds Russell Westbrook
In both the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons, Westbrook looked unplayable at times for the Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers, although Denver took a flier on him. Clearly, it worked out, as he emerged as a viable running mate next to Nikola Jokic.
Apparently, the rest of the NBA wasn’t paying attention. His continued free agency is baffling, however, especially since he declined a $3.3 million player option to remain with Denver this summer.
Someone must have told him he could make more money elsewhere.
“It’s weird, because you wonder about the information that allows him to opt out,” pointed out Richard Jefferson on an October 1st episode of Road Trippin’. “He’s Russell Westbrook. He’s getting a couple of dollars. Denver is a good situation. They like that balance off the bench. He was impactful for them this season.”
Westbrook seemed to get along with Jokic, although there was a lack of mutual interest in his returning to Denver. However, it was his choice to turn down his option. Sadly, his free agency is his own creation.
Reflecting on Russell Westbrook’s Career
It’s hard to imagine Westbrook’s career ending on other people’s terms, but if this is it, he should go down as the best player to ever suit up for the Oklahoma City Thunder, at least until Shai Gilgeous-Alexander passes him.
In 2016, after Kevin Durant signed with the Golden State Warriors, Westbrook doubled down on his commitment to stay with the Thunder and authored one of the greatest single seasons ever.
While his outside shot and questionable choices with the ball played into his downfall, he was one of the most athletic and exciting players in the NBA. A great facilitator, he is one of the best rebounding guards ever, and has had successful individual stints with the Houston Rockets and Washington Wizards, as well as his time in OKC.
With nine All-Star nods, nine All-NBA nominations, and an MVP award, Westbrook is a surefire first-ballot Hall of Famer, even if his career ends with a whimper.