For nearly two decades, Russell Westbrook was synonymous with relentless energy, triple-doubles, and a fearless brand of basketball that electrified fans and divided analysts. But as the 2025 offseason unfolds, the nine-time All-Star and former MVP finds himself in unfamiliar territory: on the outside looking in.
According to multiple reports, only three teams have shown any real interest in signing Westbrook this summer. The Sacramento Kings and New York Knicks were initially floated as potential landing spots, but both franchises have since filled their backcourt needs. Sacramento with Dennis Schröder and New York with Jordan Clarkson. That leaves Westbrook, 36, without a clear path back to the NBA.
The Sacramento Kings and the New York Knicks were the only teams outside of the Denver Nuggets that showed interest in Russell Westbrook, per @JakeLFischer
(h/t @brysonblue22)
pic.twitter.com/FosQnojdT3— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) July 3, 2025
The lack of interest is jarring, especially considering Westbrook’s productive 2024–25 campaign with the Denver Nuggets. In 75 games, he averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds per game while shooting 44.9% from the field. When called upon to start in Jamal Murray’s absence, he elevated his play, averaging 15.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 6.1 assists across 36 starts.
Yet despite those numbers, teams appear hesitant. Concerns about fit, age, and Westbrook’s polarizing style of play have cooled the market. Even teams in need of veteran point guard depth, like the Bucks, Pacers, and Suns, have reportedly prioritized other options.
Westbrook’s résumé is Hall of Fame-worthy: 2017 MVP, two-time scoring champion, three-time assist leader, and the NBA’s all-time leader in triple-doubles. His 2016–17 season, in which he averaged a triple-double and carried the Thunder to the playoffs after Kevin Durant’s departure, remains one of the most iconic individual campaigns in league history.
But his post-Oklahoma City journey has been turbulent. Stints with the Rockets, Wizards, Lakers, Clippers, and Nuggets have been marked by flashes of brilliance and stretches of inconsistency. Critics point to his inefficiency, turnover issues, and difficulty adapting to off-ball roles. Supporters counter that he’s a fierce competitor who still brings value as a spark plug off the bench.
Westbrook has not announced any plans to retire. In fact, he recently posted on Instagram:
“Seventeen in the books. Thankful and Grateful for the continued journey. Eighteen on the way”.
But with the free-agent market drying up and teams prioritizing youth and shooting, his options are narrowing.
There were even rumors, yet since debunked, of a record-setting offer from EuroCup champion Hapoel Tel Aviv. While overseas play remains a theoretical option, Westbrook has given no indication he’s ready to leave the NBA.
If this is the end, it’s a complicated farewell. Westbrook’s career has been defined by extremes: historic highs, frustrating lows, and a style of play that defied convention.
