Russell Westbrook Declines Option with the Nuggets and Becomes a Free Agent
The experienced Denver Nuggets point guard, Russell Westbrook, has decided not to exercise his player option for $3.4 million for the 2025-26 season, according to sources close to him. This decision will make him a free agent as of June 30. Westbrook, 36, played a significant role in his first season with the Nuggets, averaging 13.3 points on 44.9% shooting, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds in 75 games, of which he started 36.This number of games as a starter is the most for the veteran since the 2021-22 season.
Last month, Westbrook underwent surgery on his right hand to repair multiple ligament tears. He is expected to resume full training during the summer. In his career, Westbrook has averaged 21.2 points, 8.0 assists, and 7.0 rebounds in 1,237 games (1,075 as a starter) with the Thunder, Rockets, Wizards, Lakers, Clippers, and Nuggets. He is the historical leader in triple-doubles (203) and ranks eighth in NBA history in assists (9,925) and 23rd in points (26,205), but is still seeking his first NBA championship.
