The Los Angeles Clippers are aiming to trade veteran guard Russell Westbrook and they’re even working with his agent to make it happen.
That comes straight from Clippers head of basketball operations Lawrence Frank, who admitted that the sides are trying to locate the best possible trade for all involved. Westbrook is represented by Jeff Schwartz.
“Russ is a tremendous f—ing player. Hall of Fame player,” Frank said, via Ohm Youngmisuk of ESPN. “He’s one of one for what he’s accomplished. Last year was a different role than he’s ever played before. Since the time he’s opted in and with (Paul George) leaving as well, we’ve kind of worked with his agent to see where there’s the best fit for Russ.
“But we got great respect for Russ. He did a terrific job while he was here and we’ll continue to work through his agent to see what the best next steps are.”
The Denver Nuggets and Westbrook are believed to have a mutual interest — and the Nuggets have indeed explored Westbrook trade scenarios, sources told Hoops Wire. But there could be some hesitation on the Clippers’ part, as they may not want to send Westbrook to a Western Conference contender.
Denver may also be more interested in signing Westbrook after a waiver, instead of trading forhis $4 million contract. The Nuggets are among the teams with tax apron concerns.
“I think we need some help in the backcourt,” Nuggets general manager Calvin Booth told Altitude TV. “We are going to try to continue to identify that and survey the market. We have a roster spot left and I think if we can add a high-level guard, we will be happy with that.”
That high-level veteran guard may be on the way from LA.
The NBA’s all-time leader in triple-doubles, Westbrook averaged 11.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, 4.5 assists, 1.1 steals and 0.3 blocks in 2023-24 while shooting 45.4% from the field, 27.3% from beyond the arc and 68.8% from the foul line.
Looking for the latest NBA Insider News & Rumors?
Be sure to follow Hoops Wire on TWITTER and FACEBOOK for breaking NBA News and Rumors for all 30 teams!