NBA scout on Russell Westbrook: ‘I wouldn’t touch him in a million years’

Russell Westbrook remains one of the biggest names still available in free agency. Not everyone believes he’s worth the gamble.

Speaking to the South Florida Sun Sentinel about potential veteran additions for the Heat, one longtime NBA scout didn’t mince words when asked about the former MVP.

“I wouldn’t touch him in a million years,” the scout said. “You can’t rely on him in terms of what’s going to happen. Yeah, he’ll have great games. Sure. But he can’t shoot. He plays his own way. He’s not going to fit into a system. He doesn’t really defend.”

The scout added that while Westbrook is still capable of producing numbers, he doesn’t view the nine-time All-Star as someone who helps build a championship-caliber roster.

“He’ll put up some numbers and he’ll win you some games,” the scout said. “In terms of truly building a winning team, you don’t get him on your team.”

Westbrook, 37, spent last season with the Kings after signing shortly before training camp. He averaged 15.2 points, 6.7 assists and 5.4 rebounds in 29.0 minutes per game.

The former league MVP and future Hall of Famer has played for six teams since leaving Oklahoma City in 2019.

While his athleticism has diminished with age, he’s continued to produce as a scorer and playmaker, even as questions persist about his fit on contenders.

So, yes, Westbrook remains on the free-agent market — though few around the league expect that to last through the start of the regular season.

For better or for worse.