Russell Westbrook free agency destinations: Top 3 potential landing spots as former MVP makes major decision

With just a few weeks to go until the start of free agency, Russell Westbrook has made a decision about his future. According to recent developments, the former MVP plans to decline his player option and test the open market this summer.

Since being the face of the OKC Thunder, Westbrook has become a bit of a journeyman. Now that his time with the Denver Nuggets will end after one season, he’ll bounce around the league again in search of a new home.

Though he’s not the superstar talent he once was, Russell Westbrook has proven he can still be a productive piece on a good team. This season with the Nuggets, he averaged 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds and 6.1 assists.

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As he prepares for another trip into unrestricted free agency, here are a couple of potential landing spots for the nine-time All-Star.

3 possible landing spots for Russell Westbrook in free agency

1) Miami Heat

Kicking things off is a team that went through a major change this season, the Miami Heat. With Jimmy Butler now gone, the franchise is gearing up for a new era led by All-Star's Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo. As they look to build out their supporting cast, Westbrook could be a name on their radar.

Even at this late stage of his career, Westbrook is still a passionate and fierce competitor. His approach to his craft and the game could seamlessly fit in with "Heat Culture." More importantly, Westbrook could solidify the point guard position and take some playmaking duties off Herro. This would allow him to focus more on being the primary perimeter scorer in the offense.

2) Sacramento Kings

Another team in search of help at the point guard position is the Sacramento Kings. They've already been connected to countless veterans in trade rumors, which could lead to them targeting Russell Westbrook in free agency.

Westbrook's fit in Sacramento could be viewed as questionable, largely due to the presence of Domantas Sabonis. However, seeing that he managed to be effective alongside Nikola Jokic, it shouldn't be an issue. Westbrook has experience playing next to a ball-dominant center, which could help this adjustment. On top of this, Westbrook brings more veteran experience to the new-look roster.

3) Dallas Mavericks

Rounding out this list is a Western Conference team looking to get back in the title hunt, the Dallas Mavericks. Given their current circumstances, kicking the tires on Russell Westbrook could be something worth considering.

After tearing his ACL back in March, there is no telling when Kyrie Irving will be ready for NBA action. Knowing this, the Mavericks need someone who can help fill that void.

Westbrook has connections to the Mavs from his time playing with Anthony Davis in LA and could be insurance while they await Irving's return. Then, once he is back, Westbrook can provide a spark off the bench for Dallas as a sixth man.

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About the author

Kevin McCormick

Kevin McCormick is a basketball writer at Sportskeeda with over four years of experience in journalism and a bachelor's degree in Sports Management Marketing from Holy Family University.

Kevin has worked with various notable outlets throughout his career, including 97.3 ESPN, ClutchPoints, Heavy Sports, and Sports Illustrated/FanNation, before joining Sportskeeda in March 2022.

Specializing in NBA and WNBA coverage, Kevin's passion for basketball stems from his hometown team, the Philadelphia 76ers. Among his favorite players are Kevin Durant, Chet Holmgren, and Steph Curry, while his all-time favorites include Magic Johnson and Larry Bird.

Kevin holds Coach K in high regard for the large input he's had on the game helping mold players across multiple generations. Kevin believes the iconic rivalry between Larry Bird and Magic Johnson helped elevate the league to its current status.

Through his writing, Kevin provides in-depth analysis and insights into player and coach quotes. He prioritizes sourcing information from credible and reliable outlets.

Kevin enjoys reading, aiming to finish at least one book per month, and he is a big fan of music.

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