Russell Westbrook is still a free agent, but many NBA teams are expecting a surprising end result to his saga.
Russell Westbrook had somewhat of a redemption year last season. After joining the Denver Nuggets, Westbrook showed that he can still make an impact for a competitive NBA team.
Even though there were some reports of discord between Westbrook and his Nuggets teammates, he reminded many fans that he can still play high-level basketball, albeit in a reduced role.
However, it came as a surprise when Westbrook rejected his Nuggets player option and opted to become a free agent.
While the Sacramento Kings expressed interest in Westbrook, the former MVP has yet to sign a contract with any team.
Photo by Harry How/Getty ImagesNBA executives believe Russell Westbrook might not get a contract offer
According to Sam Amico of Hoops Wire, Russell Westbrook has attracted interest from teams like the Miami Heat, Sacramento Kings, New York Knicks, and Milwaukee Bucks.
However, NBA executives do think Russell Westbrook might not get a contract before the start of the season. Furthermore, he may have to wait to get a shot during the season.
“Several teams have been mentioned as potential fits, of course. The list includes the Sacramento Kings, Miami Heat, New York Knicks, and Milwaukee Bucks.
“That said, sources told Hoops Wire they would not be surprised if Westbrook enters the season unsigned.
“If he does get signed, it would likely be to a minimum contract, and it may or may not be a deal with any of the teams mentioned above.”
Russell Westbrook is falling victim to the new CBA’s stringent rules
Russell Westbrook is one of the many players who haven’t signed with an NBA team yet. This bizarre turn in free agency is because of the new CBA.
Under the revised CBA, teams are severely restricted in terms of the players they can sign. Going over the salary cap means the teams will fall victim to the punitive measures of the first and second aprons.
Westbrook will hope that a team will offer him a contract before the season begins. As things stand, Westbrook has received no firm offers.
Whatever the case may be, it is quite unfair that a player of Westbrook’s caliber and experience is still without a team.
He has shown that he can play a role. And while his age is discouraging, his performances are not. Hopefully, Westbrook gets a contract offer soon and can put this situation behind him.