The Denver Nuggets have entered a busy offseason focused on reshaping their lineup around their core stars Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Aaron Gordon after being eliminated in the second round of the playoffs for the second straight year. Their initial move involved trading Michael Porter Jr. to the Brooklyn Nets in exchange for sharpshooter Cameron Johnson, a deal that also created valuable salary cap flexibility.
This new cap space allowed Denver to add depth by signing free agents Bruce Brown and Tim Hardaway Jr., alongside acquiring center Jonas Valanciunas from the Sacramento Kings. These steps aimed to resolve the team’s bench depth struggles that hampered their previous campaign.
Russell Westbrook Expected to Depart Denver This Offseason
Sources report that veteran guard Russell Westbrook will not return to the Nuggets heading into the new NBA season. ESPN’s Tim MacMahon detailed that Westbrook, who spent the majority of his career with the Oklahoma City Thunder, is preparing to join a new franchise this summer, marking his sixth team in seven seasons.
“It appears that Westbrook, who spent the first 11 years of his career with the Oklahoma City Thunder, will play for his sixth franchise in seven seasons. He won’t be returning to the Denver Nuggets after a roller coaster season in which Westbrook finished seventh in the Sixth Man of the Year voting,”
—Tim MacMahon, ESPN reporter
This development aligns with earlier indications that Denver was hesitant to retain the former NBA MVP, despite Westbrook contributing both as a starter and off the bench last season. His playing time notably decreased following the firing of head coach Michael Malone and the promotion of David Adelman.
Future Prospects for Westbrook in the NBA
While the Nuggets move on without Westbrook, the Sacramento Kings are reportedly favored to sign the veteran guard in free agency. However, other NBA teams are expected to show interest in acquiring his experience and skills as they seek to strengthen their rosters ahead of the upcoming season.
The changes in Denver’s roster underline their intent to build around their key players while improving supporting roles. Westbrook’s departure concludes a turbulent season but opens new opportunities for both the guard and the teams pursuing him.