Clippers’ Russell Westbrook Picking Up Option, Trade May Be On Way

Veteran guard Russell Westbrook is picking up his $4 million option to return to the Los Angeles Clippers, per Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN.

While the Clippers like Westbrook, there is a sense they may attempt to trade him this summer, a league source told Hoops Wire.

Westbrook turns 36 years old next season, but is coming off a solid year as a reserve, averaging 11.1 points, 5.0 rebounds and 4.5 assists in 68 games.

“League sources have told ClutchPoints that Westbrook is not expected to be in a Clippers uniform next season, with Russell reportedly looking at other options that would include opportunity and playing time” wrote Tomar Azarly of ClutchPoints. “There have also been reports of the Clippers’ interest in point guards Chris Paul and Kyle Lowry, which would reinforce the idea that they’re going to replace him.”

Westbrook is a nine-time All-Star and the NBA’s all-time leader in triple-doubles, but those days are long behind him. However, he remains a valuable veteran off the bench. The Clippers’ issues seem to be the fact their stars are older and when it comes to Kawhi Leonard, injury prone.

But from the looks of things, they intend to run it mostly back.

For now, though, they will have to resolve the Paul George contract situation.

George has a player option for next season and could decline it to become a free agent. or pick it up and request a trade. 

The Clippers haven’t offered George the money he’s looking for. The Golden State Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers and Houston Rockets are interested in acquiring George, sources told Hoops Wire. 

One of the top players in the NBA, George has indicated to teams that he’s not looking to leave the West Coast.