Russell Westbrook Turns Heads after Declining $3.5 Million Player Option

Nuggets star Russell Westbrook has left the NBA world baffled with his recent 'player option' decision with the Nuggets ahead of next season.

Russell Westbrook Turns Heads after Declining $3.5 Million Player Option

Russell Westbrook (Image by FirstSportz)

According to reports, Russell Westbrook has chosen his 2025–2026 player option. NBA insider Marc Stein said on Friday that the great bench player for the Denver Nuggets turned down his $3.4 million player option, making him an unrestricted free agent on June 30. For the 18th year of his NBA career, the nine-time All-Star will be joining a new team.

In that time, he has already played for six different teams, including the Nuggets last season. Westbrook seems undecided about his choice concerning the player option following the Nuggets’ playoff exit. Given that he would turn 37 this fall, it was assumed that he would execute the option and stay in Denver for at least another year. Ultimately, Westbrook decided to move on, per Marc Stein.

Westbrook produced 13.1 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds per game in 27 minutes during his one season with the Nuggets. In 39 of his 75 games for Denver this season, he came off the bench. Despite coming off the bench for all 13 of the playoff games, Westbrook posted 11.7 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 2.6 assists.

Interestingly, a team like the Oklahoma City Thunder would be an interesting fit for him. Now, Westbrook is no stranger to the Thunder, having mixed memories with them. Despite the bitter ending at the franchise, Westbrook will want to make amends if the Thunder were to sign him. He would be the perfect bench player for the side.

A veteran like Westbrook is exactly what the Thunder side needs, as they lack experience on the bench. Westbrook would provide that for the Thunder. His impact as a role player was evident for the Nuggets this season as he turned back the clock for them. It will be interesting to watch where the former Nuggets star ends up in a few months.

Russell Westbrook makes huge injury recovery announcement

Other members of the Nuggets’ core, such as veteran guard Russell Westbrook, had a strong season. Westbrook made a big announcement about his recuperation in his Word of Westbrook email on Thursday after announcing a few weeks ago that he had surgery on his right hand. He provided his fans with a positive update.

First and foremost, thank you all for the heartwarming comments and support following the announcement of my surgery a couple of weeks ago. All is well, and I’m truly honored to have a community behind me that cares so deeply.

Russell Westbrook wrote on X
Russell WestBrook
Former Denver Nuggets player, Russell Westbrook (Credits: Athlon Sports)

This is fantastic news for Westbrook because it seems like he is recovering nicely and should be fully recovered before the upcoming season. Notably, since the former MVP winner is an unrestricted free agent this summer, it is still unclear where he will play next season. Already having played for 5+ NBA sides in his career, Westbrook will be looking to add another year to his NBA career.

Christian Braun had huge words for his former Nuggets teammate, Russell Westbrook, this past season

Christian Braun and Russell Westbrook’s play played a significant role in the Nuggets’ success. While Braun played in 14 postseason games and averaged 12.6 points and 6.4 rebounds per game, Westbrook played in 13 games and averaged 11.7 points per game. Notably, Braun opened up on the chemistry with Westbrook during the season.

I’ve never seen somebody like that who has energy constantly.

Christian Braun said

Over the season, both CB and Westbrook developed a great bond on and off the court, with their actions quite evident towards each other. Braun frequently showcased support for Westbrook on his socials and vice versa. But now with the veteran leaving the Nuggets, it remains to be seen how Braun reacts to this news.

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