Over the years, several NBA stars who found their value slipping at home have revived their careers overseas. From Stephon Marbury becoming a legend in China to Jimmer Fredette transforming into a scoring sensation in the CBA, playing abroad has often given players a second life and global fame.
Now, another name could be added to that list. One that once defined pure athletic dominance in the NBA. According to a recent report, Russell Westbrook may have received a jaw-dropping offer from China.
What Has Recently Been Reported Regarding Russell Westbrook?
The report, first revealed by Carmichael Dave of Sactown Sports, suggests that Westbrook may have an opportunity to play in China for half a season, and the money on the table is unlike anything he’s seen in recent years.
“I heard something from someone I trust enough not to blow off what they said: he may have an offer in China for about half a season, and it’s damn near quadruple what the Kings could offer him,” said Dave on the Sactown Sports 1140 radio show.
Westbrook’s recent years in the NBA have been nothing short of a roller coaster. He was once considered as one of the most feared guards in basketball, but his reputation took a hit during his stint with the Los Angeles Lakers.
His declining shooting efficiency and turnover issues became an issue, and things reached a disturbing low point when he and his family received death threats from frustrated fans. After being traded to the Clippers, Westbrook admitted feeling more comfortable, but his production continued to dip statistically.
However, in the 2024 offseason, the Denver Nuggets decided to take a chance on the veteran guard, and they signed him to a two-year contract with a second-year player option.
That move barely made headlines at the time, as many around the league believed Westbrook’s prime was long gone. But he proved the doubters wrong.
During his first season in Denver, he averaged 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, 6.1 assists, and 1.4 steals per game and helped stabilize the team’s second unit. His energy on defense and leadership presence in the locker room became valuable assets for a Nuggets team that was looking to repeat itself as a contender.
Yet, despite his resurgence, Westbrook shocked many by declining his player option at the end of the season, making him an unrestricted free agent.
So why would Russell walk away from a secure situation in Denver after enjoying a productive season?
According to former NBA player Danny Green, if Westbrook had stayed with Denver, the organization reportedly planned to bench him for most of the season. Knowing that Westbrook might have chosen freedom over frustration, he bet on himself to find a better opportunity elsewhere.
“I thought he had something guaranteed or something already in the books. Like somebody is interested. For you to opt out from what I heard is that they weren’t planning on to play him at all this year, even behind certain guys that he should be above. I feel like Russ is more out of pocket of opting out of his contract and not having one in place already,” said Green during an episode of ‘Inside the Green Room’ podcast.
With preseason in full swing and no team willing to take a chance on him yet, that offer from China looks more enticing by the day.
