After weeks of speculation, it seems that Russell Westbrook is on his way to join the Denver Nuggets. The LA Clippers have reportedly traded Westbrook, along with a second-round pick and cash, to the Utah Jazz in a sign-and-trade deal involving guard Kris Dunn. It is expected that Westbrook and the Jazz will come to an agreement on a buyout, allowing him to then sign with the Nuggets once he clears waivers.
Westbrook, a nine-time All-Star and former NBA MVP, had previously opted into his $4.1 million player option with the Clippers. Last season, he averaged 1.1 points, 5 rebounds, 4.5 assists, and 1.1 steals per game in 68 appearances, with 57 of those coming off the bench.
The Nuggets made some moves to make room for Westbrook, trading backup point guard Reggie Jackson to the Charlotte Hornets and losing Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to the Orlando Magic in free agency. It is possible that Christian Braun could move into the starting lineup for the Nuggets, with Westbrook serving as the primary backup to Jamal Murray.
Last season, the Nuggets finished with a record of 57-25 and reached the Western Conference semifinals, where they were eventually eliminated by the Minnesota Timberwolves.
As for the Clippers, they have been active in free agency, agreeing to a deal with Kris Dunn. Dunn is set to receive a three-year, $17 million contract with the Clippers after averaging 5.4 points, 3.8 assists, 2.9 rebounds, and a steal per game last season.
In addition to Dunn, the Clippers have also signed Derrick Jones Jr., Kevin Porter Jr., and Mo Bamba this offseason. They were able to retain James Harden, who re-signed with the team at the start of free agency.
It will be interesting to see how these moves impact both the Nuggets and the Clippers in the upcoming NBA season. Stay tuned for more updates as the situation continues to develop.