Russell Westbrook has declined $3.4M player option and becomes unrestricted free agent
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At 36 years old and just recovering from hand surgery, Russell Westbrook has made a surprising announcement: he's choosing to opt out of his $3.4 million player option with the Denver Nuggets and will enter unrestricted free agency on June 30.
After putting up a decent 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds across 75 games last season—and having surgery to fix two fractures in his right hand Westbrook is heading into the offseason with some serious leverage.
How Westbrook's 13.3 PPG and bench leadership reshape his free agency narrative
In his inaugural season with the Nuggets, Westbrook recorded 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds in 75 games (36 of which were starts), shooting 44.9% from the field. He suffered a broken right hand late in the season and had successful surgery to mend two fractures, yet he still played throughout the playoffs.
Although he's not the triple-double powerhouse he used to be, he proved to be efficient, resilient, and a valuable veteran presence as Denver's sixth man and occasional starter.
For many veterans, turning down guaranteed money isn't the norm—especially for someone still earning the lowest salary of his 17-year career. However, Westbrook seems to be motivated by factors beyond just his paycheck. He's seeking more freedom, a significant role, and maybe even a chance to win his first NBA championship.
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As June 30 gets closer, he faces a choice: return to Denver, likely at the veteran minimum, or look for a more substantial role in the market.
His decision to opt-out has opened up a lot of cap flexibility; the Nuggets are currently around $10.6 M beneath the second salary cap apron, which gives them access to the $5.7 M taxpayer mid-level exception and veteran minimum slots. This allows Denver to chase after affordable veterans or seek trade assets without entering the expensive luxury tax bracket.
With big contracts already in play for Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, Michael Porter Jr.
, and Aaron Gordon, moving on from Westbrook's contract was a tactical choice.
With no restrictions as a free agent on June 30, Westbrook's future is completely open. He's likely looking for a one-year veterans-minimum deal with playoff teams that need backcourt playmaking and leadership. Meanwhile, Denver has to find a way to replace his scoring off the bench Jalen Pickett is now the only backup point guard left and they could either sign two veterans at the minimum or make a trade to enhance their depth.
Russell Westbrook's choice to turn down his player option goes beyond finances—it's a declaration. Fresh off hand surgery, with a great season in scoring and assists, along with key playoff performances, he's taking a chance on himself one last time.
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Peja Stojakovic Accuses Rich Paul of Blackmail in De'Aaron Fox Trade From Sacramento Kings to San Antonio Spurs
For the Denver Nuggets, this is a well-planned financial reset. With free agency starting on June 30, all attention will be on Westbrook's next destination and if this new phase will finally lead him to the championship ring he's been after.
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