Clippers Trade Russell Westbrook to Jazz, Who Will Then Waive Him and Buy Out Contract
The Los Angeles Clippers have traded Russell Westbrook to the Utah Jazz in exchange for Kris Dunn, a second-round draft pick, and cash considerations. However, Westbrook will not be staying with the Jazz for long, as they plan to waive him and buy out the remainder of his contract.
Westbrook Heads to Denver
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Westbrook will join the Denver Nuggets, where he will play alongside Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray. The Nuggets were looking for a veteran backup point guard after losing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Reggie Jackson.
Challenges Ahead for Westbrook
At 35 years old, Westbrook’s fit with the Nuggets may not be easy. He has struggled to find his place since leaving the Thunder in 2019, playing for the Rockets, Wizards, Lakers, and Clippers without having the same impact he had in Oklahoma.
Lowest Point of His Career
This season with the Clippers, Westbrook averaged 11.1 points, 4.5 assists, and 22.5 minutes per game, all of which are career lows. He was relegated to the bench midway through the season with the arrival of James Harden, and the team has since gone 26-5.
Westbrook’s Future Uncertain
Westbrook opted out of his $4 million contract last month, and Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank had conversations with the point guard’s agent to find the right fit for the nine-time All-Star. With Paul George set to join the Sixers, it’s unclear what the future holds for Westbrook.