New Russell Westbrook, Lakers Report Surfaces Amid Nuggets Controversy

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated May 13, 2025 8:33 PM ET

In July 2024, the Denver Nuggets signed veteran guard Russell Westbrook to a two-year, $6.8 million contract, including a player option for the 2025-26 season. This move followed his trade to the Utah Jazz, who waived him shortly after acquiring him from the Los Angeles Clippers. Westbrook's addition aimed to strengthen Denver's backcourt depth, especially after the departures of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Reggie Jackson.

Prior to joining the Nuggets, Westbrook experienced a tumultuous period with the Los Angeles Lakers. His fit alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis was often questioned, leading to a trade to the Utah Jazz in February 2023. The Jazz promptly bought out his contract, allowing him to sign with the Clippers, where he played a supporting role.

On Tuesday, ESPN's Ramona Shelburne dropped an article detailing some internal controversy the Nuggets have been facing. Westbrook has been at the center of this, with one Nuggets player reportedly calling him immature.

Amid this report, Shelburne dropped a Lakers-related nugget. Per the ESPN insider, Denver contemplated signing Westbrook after the Lakers traded him in 2023. She also added that Westbrook nearly played himself out of the NBA rather than accepting a bench role with LA.

The Nuggets had talked about adding Russell Westbrook for years, but decided against it, sources said, because they worried it would undercut Jamal Murray. This year was different. They needed him. https://t.co/WGK5fVVNc1 https://t.co/WGK5fVVNc1
— Ramona Shelburne (@ramonashelburne) May 13, 2025

The Nuggets' decision to avoid Westbrook initially proved fruitful, as they secured the NBA championship in 2023. However, the subsequent season presented challenges, including injuries and roster changes, as Denver was knocked out of the playoffs in the second round by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Westbrook's eventual signing provided the team with veteran leadership and experience, qualities deemed valuable for another championship pursuit.

As the Nuggets prepare for their upcoming playoff series against the Oklahoma City Thunder, Westbrook's former team, his experience and energy could prove invaluable. The matchup presents an opportunity for Westbrook to contribute meaningfully against a familiar opponent, potentially influencing the series' outcome.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: