As NBA training camps prepare to open, future Hall of Fame point guard Russell Westbrook remains a free agent. The surprising situation comes after a productive season as a key reserve for the Denver Nuggets, where he declined his player option to test the market.
Westbrook, who turns 37 in November, is navigating a landscape that has seemingly cooled on the former superstar, despite his effective transition into a bench role. While his athleticism is no longer at its peak, he remains a valuable passer, rebounder, and interior scorer who could provide a significant boost to a team. His recent contributions have been recognized, finishing seventh in the Sixth Man of the Year voting in each of the past two seasons with the L.A. Clippers and Denver.
In a recent podcast appearance, former teammate Michael Porter Jr. defended Westbrook and offered insight into the guard’s challenging career transition. Speaking on “Respectfully The Justin Laboy Show,” the Brooklyn Nets forward sympathized with Westbrook’s difficult adjustment from being a league MVP to a role player.
“It would be hard for any player to go from being the MVP of the NBA to then taking on a role where you’re coming off the bench,” Porter said, adding that Westbrook faced unfair criticism during his recent stints with Los Angeles teams. “When he went to LA [Lakers], he was disrespected like crazy. When he went to the Clippers, people hated on him like crazy. Meanwhile, he’s been the MVP of the NBA.”
Westbrook’s tenure with his hometown Lakers from 2021 to 2023 was particularly tumultuous, ending in a mid-season trade. He later found a more suitable role with the Clippers before signing with the Nuggets last season.
Porter Jr. praised Westbrook’s attitude upon arriving in Denver. “All those things weighed on Russ,” he explained. “And when he came over with us, he came in with some great energy. He really bought into the system. He was cheering people on.”
He also commended the veteran’s unwavering work ethic. “To this day, like he’s a little older now, but every day he’s in the gym getting shots up, doing his thing,” Porter added.
In 75 games for Denver last season, Westbrook averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds per contest.
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