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As reported by Adrian Wojnarowski on X, former NBA MVP Russell Westbrook will remain with the LA Clippers. Initially, it was reported that the nine-time All-Star was considering declining the player option on his contract to become an unrestricted free agent.
Westbrook embraced his role as a sparkplug off the bench last season. He excelled as a role player and even received some votes for the Sixth Man of the Year.
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Fans who saw the report that Westbrook will remain with the Clippers shared their thoughts on X. Some lamented that he isn't leaving, while others shared their predictions for how he will perform next year:
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"He will average a triple-single next season," @franklinisbored predicted.
"Clippers fans mad asf right now and I’m mad asf he not leaving," @CookedByRiley0 shared.
"Clippers ain't ever winning a championship with him in the roster. Sorry," @LeKokomi_ said.
On the other hand, there were also some fans who were happy with his decision to remain as a Clipper.
"Huge W he such a leader with em," @VinceGGMuse posted.
"His presence alone on the court at this stage of his career is worth much more than $4M but I’m glad he’s staying a Clip," @FatJesus23 chimed in.
"Russ is a W mans for this," @ClipNation74 said.
Opting in to the final year of his contract does not mean that Westbrook will remain with the LA Clippers past the free-agency period this summer.
The team's front office could still send him to a team that needs a veteran point guard, or Westbrook could make a request to be moved.
The LA Clippers could be looking for a replacement for Russell Westbrook
The LA Clippers are reportedly looking to bring back one of its superstars from a bygone era. Chris Paul, who led them during the Lob City Clippers years is reportedly making a move from the Golden State Warriors, and his former team is interested in having him back.
If the Clippers land Paul this summer, it likely means that there won't be a spot for Westbrook on the team's rotation.
Much like Russell Westbrook, Paul is no longer the superstar that he once was. Both players have logged tons of mileage and are in the last legs of their respective careers, but that does not mean they can no longer help a team.
Both players have made the NBA Finals once — Westbrook in 2012 with the OKC Thunder and Paul in 2021 with the Phoenix Suns. However, both have yet to win an NBA title. That experience and high basketball IQ continue to make them assets.
At this point, either player will best serve the Clippers as a backup point guard who provides energy and a veteran presence off the bench.
Whether the Clippers end up with Paul eventually or carry on with Westbrook, they will need to hurry up in their championship pursuit, as their window is closing quickly.
