It was previously reported that Russell Westbrook isn’t likely to return for another season with the Los Angeles Clippers. This is probably why more than a few folks out there were left confused by the fact that the former NBA MVP just picked up the player option of his current contract for the upcoming season.
According to reports, however, this development does not mean that Russ has had a change of heart in terms of running it back with LA for 2024-25.
Los Angeles Clippers News: Russell Westbrook Opts Into Deal
According to a report by Law Murray and Jenna West of The Athletic, Westbrook and the Clippers are still likely to head toward a divorce:
“LA Clippers point guard Russell Westbrook has opted into the last year of his contract that will pay him just over $4 million in 2024-25, per team source. However, Westbrook’s return to the team is not a certainty, per league source. While this decision guarantees that Westbrook will get what is owed to him, there remains a possibility that the player and team move on,” read the report.
This likely means that the Clippers will now need to try and work out a trade deal for Westbrook. The market for the 35-year-old obviously isn’t as hot as it was five or so years ago, so finding a suitable trade partner could pose a significant challenge.
This could then open the possibility of the Clippers choosing to waive Westbrook’s contract and absorb the $4 million he is owed next season. Either way, it appears that Russ won’t be in a Clippers uniform next term.
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