Russell Westbrook, the former MVP and nine-time NBA All-Star, is on the move once again. After picking up his player option for the 2024-25 season with the Los Angeles Clippers, he was traded to the Utah Jazz in a sign-and-trade deal that sent guard Kris Dunn to the Clippers.
Westbrook is expected to agree to a contract buyout with the Jazz and join another team after clearing waivers. According to multiple reports, including ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Denver Nuggets are a leading contender for Westbrook's services.
The Clippers acquired Westbrook in 2023 from the Washington Wizards in a blockbuster deal that sent forward Monte Morris, guard Ish Smith, and two first-round draft picks to Washington. In his first season with the Clippers, Westbrook averaged 11.1 points and 5.0 rebounds as a sixth man.
The Nuggets currently have a full roster but could use additional depth at guard with Jamal Murray recovering from injury. Michael Porter Jr.'s health is also a concern, as he is projected to play around 70 games this season.
Westbrook's arrival in Denver could provide both a distraction and an energy boost for the team. The Nuggets reached the Western Conference Finals last season but were ultimately eliminated by the eventual NBA champions, the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Jazz received a second-round pick swap and $4.3 million in cash as part of the deal. The Clippers also sent draft rights to Balsa Koprivica to Utah.
Westbrook's departure from the Clippers marks another significant move for the team, which has seen its roster change dramatically over the past few seasons. The team lost Paul George and Kawhi Leonard in free agency last offseason and traded away Marcus Morris Sr. during this year's trade deadline.