In a stunning turn of events, veteran guard Russell Westbrook has announced his departure from the Denver Nuggets, leaving fans and analysts alike in disbelief. The 36-year-old former MVP, known for his explosive playing style and triple-double prowess, has been a polarizing figure throughout his illustrious career.([The Guardian][1])
Westbrook joined the Nuggets in July 2024 on a two-year, \$6.8 million deal after a brief stint with the Utah Jazz, who had acquired him from the Los Angeles Clippers in a sign-and-trade deal. His arrival in Denver marked a new chapter, as he embraced a role as a veteran leader alongside MVP candidate Nikola Jokić. Over the course of the season, Westbrook averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game, showcasing a more efficient and team-oriented approach compared to his earlier years .([Sporting News][2], [SBNation.com][3])
Despite his individual success, Westbrook’s time with the Nuggets was not without controversy. Reports surfaced of tensions within the locker room, including a rumored conflict with forward Aaron Gordon and questions about his fit within the team’s system . Additionally, the Nuggets faced challenges in the postseason, culminating in a Game 7 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, which led to discussions about the team’s roster and future direction .([Diario AS][4], [talkSPORT][5])
### The Decision to Leave
The exact reasons behind Westbrook’s departure remain unclear, with no official statement from either the player or the Nuggets organization. However, sources close to the situation suggest that Westbrook’s decision was influenced by a combination of factors, including personal considerations and a desire for a new opportunity. His abrupt exit has left many questioning the stability and cohesion of the Nuggets’ roster moving forward.
As the Nuggets navigate this unexpected development, the focus now shifts to how they will address the void left by Westbrook’s departure. With the offseason approaching, the team faces critical decisions regarding roster construction and leadership. The front office’s ability to adapt and respond to this change will be pivotal in determining the team’s trajectory in the coming seasons.
For Westbrook, this marks yet another chapter in a career filled with twists and turns. Whether this is a temporary hiatus or the beginning of a new journey remains to be seen. One thing is certain: Russell Westbrook’s impact on the NBA is far from over.
* [The Guardian](https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/may/19/russell-westbrook-denver-nuggets-nba?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
* [Diario AS](https://as.com/baloncesto/nba/westbrook-si-westbrook-no-el-drama-de-los-nuggets-n/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
* [SBNation.com](https://www.sbnation.com/nba/2025/3/17/24387935/russell-westbrook-denver-nuggets-stats-analysis?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
[1]: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/may/19/russell-westbrook-denver-nuggets-nba?utm_source=chatgpt.com “The strange twilight of Russell Westbrook, the NBA’s ultimate fetish player”
[2]: https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nba/news/russell-westbrook-clippers-nuggets-2024-free-agency-trade/cdc0e8d1e8f26dc82bde52a9?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Why did Russell Westbrook leave Clippers for Nuggets? Explaining former MVP’s 2024 free agency decision | Sporting News”
[3]: https://www.sbnation.com/nba/2025/3/17/24387935/russell-westbrook-denver-nuggets-stats-analysis?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Russell Westbrook has finally silenced the critics by playing totally unlike Russell Westbrook”
[4]: https://as.com/baloncesto/nba/westbrook-si-westbrook-no-el-drama-de-los-nuggets-n/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Westbrook sí, Westbrook no: el drama de los Nuggets”
[5]: https://talksport.com/basketball/3216982/nba-nikola-jokic-denver-nuggets-playoff-loss-thunder/?utm_source=chatgpt.com “Nikola Jokic reveals plan to get over brutal Nuggets loss and calls out glaring roster problem”