Training camp will start in a matter of weeks, and Russell Westbrook still remains a free agent. The former MVP is coming off a solid campaign with the Denver Nuggets, showing his ability to adjust to a role-player spot, but he remains without a home.
Averaging 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds a game, Westbrook had a strong case for Sixth Man of the Year last season, so it’s fair to say he still has plenty of basketball left. Here are five teams that make sense as Westbrook’s next destination.
Sacramento Kings
It’s easy to start with the team most often linked to him this offseason. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon first reported in August that the Kings were interested in Westbrook.
However, adding him to their current rotation of guards wouldn’t make much sense, as they already have plenty of backcourt depth. If they can move one of their guards to make room, Westbrook could give Sacramento solid bench production this season.
Miami Heat
The Heat have undergone major changes over the past year. Even though Jimmy Butler is gone, their intentions remain the same: make a playoff run.
Westbrook is no longer what he once was, but he would still strengthen Miami’s chances. The Heat could use guard depth, even with Davion Mitchell’s rapid improvement. With Terry Rozier in decline, Westbrook could make up for some of what Rozier has lost.
New York Knicks
The Knicks have been searching for a backup point guard, from Malcolm Brogdon to Ben Simmons. After their most successful playoff run since 2000, it’s no surprise they want to add more help. Westbrook could provide it.
Granted, the Knicks added Jordan Clarkson this summer, who may not be the same player as Westbrook but fills a similar role. Still, New York will want its stars well-rested for another playoff push. Westbrook could be serviceable depth when the roster is thin.
Oklahoma City Thunder
Do the Thunder need Westbrook’s help? Absolutely not. The primary reason he’s listed here is sentimentality. Westbrook was the Thunder’s franchise cornerstone for years, and it would be fitting if he got a ring where he started his career.
From a basketball standpoint, there’s at least some logic. Oklahoma City is entering a stage where it must pay its young players, which could lead to trades. That, in turn, might open the door for cheap veteran help, and that’s where Westbrook could fit.
Denver Nuggets
The Nuggets’ depth moves have been one of the offseason’s bigger storylines. While Bruce Brown and Tim Hardaway Jr. are expected to lead the second unit, Westbrook showed he could fit into the rotation, so why not run it back?
It wasn’t always pretty, but Westbrook proved during the Nuggets’ playoff run that he could help a contender. If he’s out of options and willing to return, nothing should stop Denver from making it happen.
