Here’s How Much Russell Westbrook Gave Up To Complete Utah Jazz Buyout

The trade marks the fifth time Westbrook has been traded in his career. The 35-year-old veteran averaged a career-low 11.1 points per game while mostly coming off the bench for the Clippers last season. The move brings an end to Westbrook’s two attempts to win a championship in his hometown.

He had a disappointing run with the Los Angeles Lakers before being traded to Utah in February 2023. Westbrook then signed with the Clippers after the Jazz bought out his contract, but he struggled to find his footing alongside veteran stars.

The Clippers will receive Kris Dunn in the trade, who they see as a relentless point-of-attack defender and a connector on the offensive end. With Paul George leaving in free agency, the Clippers will look to Dunn to help improve their defense and balance their backcourt.

What Russell Westbrook Lost To Complete Utah Jazz Buyout

After the second time he was bought out by the Jazz, Westbrook had to give up an amount of money to become a free agent. In a tweet by Keith Smith on his official X account, more details about the transaction were shared.

“Russell Westbrook gave up $1.7M in his buyout with the Utah Jazz, a league source told @spotrac. Westbrook reduced his dead money cap hit from just over $4.0M to just over $2.3M,” Smith tweeted.

Over the course of his career, Westbrook has averaged 21.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, 8.1 assists, and 1.6 steals. He is projected to provide the Nuggets with another playmaker, either as a starter or as part of the reserve unit.

It remains to be seen how Westbrook will fit into Denver’s system or if he’ll falter into the background. In any case, the former MVP will not play in a situation that has him playing behind Jokic, Jamal Murray, and Michael Porter Jr. next season.