Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN reports that Russell Westbrook seeks to relocate back to Los Angeles and sign with the LA Clippers.
Guard Russell Westbrook, a nine-time All-Star, intends to sign with the LA Clippers after completing a contract buyout, according to his agent Jeff Schwartz of Excel Sports, who spoke to ESPN.
Westbrook had interest from several teams, including the Chicago Bulls and Washington Wizards, and Utah had discussed the possibility of keeping him in a limited role. However, he will stay in his hometown and compete for a championship alongside Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. ESPN first announced Westbrook’s move to the Clippers.
The 34-year-old will have played for five teams since 2019, when he takes the court for the Clippers. Westbrook averaged 15.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 7.5 assists while playing as the Lakers’ sixth man this season. However, he only shot 41.7 percent from the field and 29.6 percent from three-point range.
According to sources, as Clippers officials, such as head coach Ty Lue and president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank, engaged in a series of conversations with Westbrook, the team’s interest in Westbrook grew. According to sources, these discussions centered on Westbrook’s readiness to play a clear and defined role with the Clippers built around his playmaking, rebounding, and toughness.
Paul George, a former teammate of Westbrook’s from the Thunder, is now a member of the Clippers core with championship aspirations.
According to sources, Westbrook had recently discussed deals with the Miami Heat, Chicago Bulls, and Washington Wizards. Still, his decision to sign with the Clippers was primarily influenced by the opportunity to contend for a championship while staying in Los Angeles.
As part of a three-team deal on Wednesday, the Los Angeles Lakers traded Westbrook, and a 2027 first-round draught pick to the Jazz. After a turbulent season and a half with the Lakers, Westbrook took time to unwind and think about his options. In 28.7 minutes per game, Westbrook played the sixth man for the Lakers, averaging 15.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 7.5 assists.
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