The NBA free agency market has been harsh this offseason, with a plethora of veterans still unsigned and restricted free agents stuck in contract battles.
The Denver Nuggets were likely slightly surprised when 17-year NBA veteran point guard Russell Westbrook declined his player option for the 2025-26 season to enter the open market, but the former MVP is still searching for his next team. It is likely that a return to Denver has not been ruled out for Westbrook, but a couple of other teams seem to be the frontrunners.
May 18, 2025; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook (4) runs down the court against the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second quarter during game seven of the second round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images / Alonzo Adams-Imagn Images
A handful of suitors have been mentioned for Westbrook throughout the offseason, although the most prominent team as of late has been the Sacramento Kings. The Kings seem to be showing strong interest as they look for another veteran ball-handler, but there is doubt that Westbrook would want to play for a non-title contender.
The New York Knicks have also been frequently mentioned as a potential landing spot, as new head coach Mike Brown could use a high-intensity veteran in his second unit. Other teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder and Miami Heat have been brought up in conversations about his next team, but both of those spots seem unlikely.
And they should be.
It’s not done, but it’s been cooking for a while. And there is strong interest from both sides.
I’d say 80-20 he’s a King https://t.co/1MlotQLdhX
— Carmichael Dave (@CarmichaelDave) July 27, 2025
In his lone season with the Nuggets, Westbrook averaged 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, 6.1 assists, and 1.4 steals per game, but showcased his high-level defensive ability and valuable hustle plays. While Westbrook is well past his MVP-caliber prime, he is still one of the biggest names in the league, so everyone will be speculating where he ends up.
In his recent “Word of Westbrook” blog post, Westbrook addressed the rumors of where he is going to end up.
“It’s no secret that there’s news about where I’ll end up on the horizon, and I appreciate y’all’s interest… but just hold tight, there’s more to come,” Westbrook wrote.
Apr 19, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook (4) reacts to his defensive turnover in overtime against the LA Clippers at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images / Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Westbrook’s free agency decision is highly anticipated, as his next team could be his last. However, that is likely why he is taking his sweet time. With Westbrook contemplating whether he wants to be close to home, on a title contender, or whatever else it might be, he hints that he could be close to a decision.
How Russell Westbrook Could Fit For A Surprise NBA Team
Nuggets Predicted to Make $85 Million Decision for Key Starter
Miami Heat Reportedly Facing Decision on 9x NBA All-Star Russell Westbrook
Ex-Mavericks Assistant Makes Strong Nikola Jokic, Luka Doncic Claim