Russell Westbrook remains an NBA free agent after declining his player option with the Denver Nuggets for the upcoming season, leaving his future uncertain. Despite appearing in 75 games last year and contributing significant minutes, Denver’s recent acquisitions suggest Westbrook will no longer be part of their plans.
Denver’s Offseason Moves Signal End of Westbrook’s Tenure
When Westbrook opted out, a potential return to Denver was still conceivable given his average of 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game last season. However, the Nuggets have strengthened their bench backcourt by signing Tim Hardaway Jr. and acquiring Bruce Brown, indicating a clear shift away from Westbrook for the next season.
Patrick Beverley Shares Perspective on Nuggets’ Strategy
On his Pat Bev Podcast for Barstool, Patrick Beverley discussed Denver’s recent roster changes. Asked by Adam Rone Ferrone about the Nuggets moving on from Westbrook, Beverley acknowledged the impact of their new signings around Nikola Jokic’s core.
That move is gonna have them getting off of Russ,
Rone remarked about the addition of Bruce Brown.
The Kings are making a really big push for Russ. But that leaves a divot in their backup point guard rotation.
—Adam Rone Ferrone
Responding to this, Beverley observed,
When you add some shooting around [Nikola Jokic] like they have with Tim Hardaway Jr., they added Bruce Brown back… I think Tim Hardaway Jr. is gonna light that [expletive] up.
—Patrick Beverley
Beverley and Westbrook’s Complex History
Though Beverley and Westbrook once had a long-standing rivalry dating back to an injury in the 2013 NBA Playoffs, their relationship evolved after playing together with the Los Angeles Lakers, where they resolved past conflicts. Beverley has been outspoken in praising Westbrook’s talents, yet he respects Denver’s strategy to improve spacing and shooting around Jokic.
Implications for Westbrook and the Nuggets
Denver’s decision to move forward without Westbrook highlights their commitment to reshaping the roster around a more versatile and shooting-capable lineup. For Westbrook, this free agency period could define the twilight of his NBA career as teams evaluate his fit amid changing league trends. Beverley’s insights reflect a broader sense of transition, marking a significant moment for both the player and the Nuggets organization.