Russell Westbrook Joins Denver Nuggets After Trade and Buyout

Russell Westbrook has found a new home in Denver. ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski first reported that the Los Angeles Clippers traded the former MVP to the Utah Jazz. Following a contract buyout with Utah, Westbrook signed with the Denver Nuggets.

This deal has been in the works since July 1st. In the sign-and-trade, Utah Jazz guard Kris Dunn signed with the Los Angeles Clippers on a three-year, $17 million contract.

Westbrook joins a team that has had mutual interest for a long time. He will try to replace the production that guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope provided. While he may not match Caldwell-Pope’s three-point shooting or defense, Westbrook’s effectiveness with Nikola Jokic on the elbow and forward Aaron Gordon rolling to the rim promises exciting highlights.

Westbrook has been traded five times since 2019 and is determined to make it back to the NBA Finals, a feat he last achieved over a decade ago. Known for his team spirit, energy, and passion, he brings a dynamic presence to the Nuggets.

Denver has had a relatively quiet off-season, and this move adds another building block as they aim to win their second championship in three years.