In a surprising development, veteran point guard Russell Westbrook has announced his departure from the Denver Nuggets, concluding a brief yet eventful tenure with the team. The decision comes amid a season marked by both individual milestones and team challenges.
Westbrook joined the Nuggets in July 2024, signing a two-year, \$6.8 million deal after being waived by the Utah Jazz . His arrival was met with optimism, as Denver aimed to bolster its backcourt depth and experience. Throughout the 2024–25 season, Westbrook contributed significantly, averaging 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists over 75 games .([NBA][1], [Diario AS][2])
Despite his efforts, the season was not without controversy. Westbrook’s playing style, characterized by high energy and assertiveness, occasionally clashed with the team’s dynamics. Notably, during a double-overtime loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, a late-game turnover and subsequent foul by Westbrook overshadowed a historic performance by teammate Nikola Jokić .([Wikipedia][3])
Internal tensions also surfaced, particularly following the departure of head coach Mike Malone and the appointment of David Adelman. Reports suggest that Westbrook was benched during critical moments in favor of younger players like Jalen Pickett, and there were rumors of locker room disagreements, including with forward Aaron Gordon .([Diario AS][2])
Despite these challenges, Westbrook achieved personal milestones, including surpassing 26,000 career points and moving up in all-time assists and steals rankings . His partnership with Jokić was particularly noteworthy, as the duo became the first pair of teammates in NBA history to each record a triple-double in the same game multiple times in a season.([Wikipedia][3])
Westbrook’s departure leaves the Nuggets at a crossroads as they reassess their roster and strategies moving forward. For Westbrook, the next chapter in his illustrious career remains uncertain. At 36, the nine-time All-Star and former MVP has demonstrated resilience and adaptability, suggesting that he may still have more to contribute in the NBA.
As the basketball community awaits official statements from both Westbrook and the Nuggets, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see where the seasoned guard lands next and how Denver plans to fill the void left by his exit.