Russell Westbrook is reportedly looking to greener pastures as he and the Clippers look set to part ways this offseason. According to Tomer Azarly of ClutchPoints, Westbrook isn’t expected to be on the Clippers roster next season. They cite playing time and new opportunities as his reasons to leave.
“League sources have told ClutchPoints that Westbrook is not expected to be in a Clippers uniform next season, with Russell reportedly looking at other options that would include opportunity and playing time.”
Azarly added that the Clippers are interested in other point guards such as Chris Paul and Kyle Lowry, two veteran guards who could fill the gap that Westbrook will leave should he exit the Clippers.
“There have also been reports of the Clippers’ interest in point guards Chris Paul and Kyle Lowry, which would reinforce the idea that they’re going to replace him.”
Russell Westbrook struggled to find consistency with the Clippers last season, after the arrival of James Harden via a trade with the 76ers. Prior to that, Westbrook had gelled well with Clippers stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George.
However, many of the same issues that were present during Harden and Westbrook’s tenure as teammates on the Rockets crept up, and Ty Lue opted to bring Westbrook off the bench in favor of Harden starting. While Westbrook didn’t complain, he surely couldn’t have been happy about his role with the team changing.
While Westbrook is no longer the perennial MVP candidate that he once was, he has shown that he can play a serviceable role on a contending team. His relentless effort and grit will come in handy for any team looking to add some depth to their roster.
Where Will Russell Westbrook Play Next Season?
Russell Westbrook had a decent season with the Clippers this year. He averaged 11.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.5 assists in 68 games this season. Despite not being one of the key pieces for the Clippers, he proved effective as a contributor off the bench and helped lead the second unit for the Clippers when the starters would sit down.
Westbrook could find his way to any team in the NBA that is looking to bolster their bench. While there haven’t been any reports on what teams are looking to bring him in, there will undoubtedly be a market for the former MVP. Westbrook himself will be determined to show that he is still a reliable player in the league.
Perhaps the Eastern Conference is a better fit for Westbrook, as the stacked Western Conference teams will point to his flounder performances in the last few years with both the Lakers and the Clippers to justify their hesitation to sign him. A team like the Heat would be a great fit for Russ, as he exemplifies the hard-working ‘Heat Culture’ better than most players in the NBA.
Regardless of where he ends up signing, Westbrook will be a valuable piece in the league. If he can restore some of his value with whatever team he signs, he could look to earn one final big payday before he calls time on his illustrious career in the NBA.
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