Former NBA player Kendrick Perkins recently ranked Russell Westbrook above Chris Paul, despite widespread criticism of Westbrook’s recent performances. Perkins stated that while Paul is among the top 15 point guards in NBA history, he does not include him in his top 10, emphasizing the importance of accolades such as championships and MVP awards in determining rankings.
Perkins elaborated on his reasoning during an appearance on the “Road Trippin’ Show” podcast, explaining why Paul falls short compared to Westbrook in his evaluation.
“CP3 (Chris Paul) is the top 15 greatest point guard of all time. I do not have him in my top 10,” Perkins said on Monday, via the “Road Trippin’ Show” podcast.
“I don’t have CP3 ranked above Russell Westbrook. But when it comes down to rankings, you got to check those boxes and you got to have those accolades. And when I say accolades, yes, championships or finals MVP, obviously. But CP3 don’t have one MVP.”
Comparing the Careers and Achievements of Westbrook and Paul
Westbrook captured the NBA’s Most Valuable Player award in 2017 and distinguished himself by becoming the first player since Oscar Robertson to average a triple-double for an entire season. In contrast, Chris Paul, known for his leadership and consistency, has never won an MVP award, though he did finish as the runner-up in 2008.
Both players have faced scrutiny for their postseason shortcomings, but Westbrook’s 2016 Oklahoma City Thunder team reached the Western Conference Finals with him as the primary scorer, whereas Paul made a single NBA Finals appearance in 2021. Despite this, Paul has also been associated with several costly playoff collapses throughout his career.
Russell Westbrook’s Free Agency and Potential Teams
Westbrook declined his 2025-26 player option with the Denver Nuggets, valued at $3.4 million, making him an unrestricted free agent as of June 30. While a return to Denver remains a possibility, no team has signed Westbrook yet heading into the offseason.
The Sacramento Kings are reportedly the most likely destination, seeking a veteran playmaker to support Zach LaVine and Keegan Murray. The Miami Heat have also been linked as a potential suitor, potentially offering a veteran minimum deal to bolster their backcourt depth.
In the previous season, Westbrook averaged 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, 6.1 assists, and 1.4 steals per contest, maintaining a productive presence on the court despite reduced minutes and role adjustments.
What This Means for Westbrook’s Legacy and Future
Kendrick Perkins’ ranking highlights the ongoing debate surrounding the legacies of both Westbrook and Paul, focusing on tangible achievements like MVP awards and playoff success. As Westbrook enters free agency, the choices he makes next will influence how his career is ultimately remembered among NBA greats.
Teams interested in his veteran experience could offer him an opportunity to continue contributing at a high level, potentially reshaping his narrative in the final stages of his career.