In a move shaking up the NBA offseason, nine-time all-star and 2016–17 MVP Russell Westbrook has declined his $4 million player option for the 2025–26 season with the Denver Nuggets, officially becoming an unrestricted free agent on June 30.
Westbrook might be willing to return to the Nuggets or consider new chapter opportunities that offer richer compensation and a fit. Denver, with a payroll far in excess of the cap, would be one in a position to use his choice to redraft payroll flexibility before making summer roster maneuvers.
“Denver’s Russell Westbrook is declining his player option for next season to become an unrestricted free agent on June 30.”
Marc Stein wrote on X.
Denver’s Russell Westbrook is declining his player option for next season to become an unrestricted free agent on June 30, league sources tell @TheSteinLine.
— Marc Stein (@TheSteinLine) June 13, 2025
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Nuggets seem Interested in Russell Westbrook’s Veteran Presence
Russell Westbrook averaged 11.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game during the 2023–24 season, mostly coming off the bench with occasional starts. He filled in during injuries and load management games, with minutes adjusted by rotation.
Jamal Murray led Denver’s backcourt. Reggie Jackson served as the primary backup. This raised questions about where Westbrook could fit into the lineup. Westbrook brings playoff experience and veteran leadership. Teams may consider him for a bench role if roster changes occur.
Westbrook concluded the last season ranked first in all-time triple-doubles with 203. Over his career, he has averaged 21.2 points, 8.0 assists, and 7.0 rebounds per game.
He played primarily in a reserve role, occasionally starting when team rotations required adjustments. These statistics place him among the top contributors in several career categories for guards.
What Russell Westbrook Would Bring to Any Contender?
Even in tight spaces, Westbrook plays with full intensity. His transition game is explosive, and he doesn’t back down from any matchup.
The Nuggets, who lost in the second round of the 2024 NBA Playoffs to the Minnesota Timberwolves, may view Westbrook as a means of stirring back to life their bench attack. Yet others believe that issues with spacing and having to handle the ball might generate redundancy.
If Denver signs him, other playoff teams lacking veteran guard depth could enter the mix. Westbrook’s future may hinge on his willingness to accept a smaller role and a veteran minimum deal.
Westbrook underwent a minor procedure on his right hand and is expected to be ready for training camp.
Free agency opens June 30, giving teams time to adjust rosters. Denver has no games scheduled until preseason begins in October, providing a window to evaluate Russell Westbrook’s future with the team.
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