When can Russell Westbrook play his first game for the LA Clippers? Latest update on the 9x NBA All-Star clearing waivers
Nine-time NBA All-Star point guard Russell Westbrook agreed to a deal with the LA Clippers earlier this week following his buyout from the Utah Jazz. Many fans are now anxious to see Westbrook make his Clippers debut.
According to multiple sources who spoke with The Associated Press, the former MVP could make his debut as early as Friday once he clears waivers.
Russell Westbrook could make his debut with the Los Angeles Clippers on Friday once he clears waivers, two people with knowledge of the matter said Tuesday.
by @joereedy
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Westbrook was waived by the jazz on Monday. This means he should clear waivers on Wednesday as no team will be able to claim the remainder of his massive $47.1 million contract off waivers.
The Clippers (33-28, fourth in the West) will face off against the Sacramento Kings (32-25, third in the West) at home on Friday. The game will be the team's first following the All-Star break.
If Westbrook is unable to suit up by then, his next opportunity to make his Clippers debut will be on Sunday. That game will be on the road against the Denver Nuggets (41-18, first in the West).
Russell Westbrook averaged 15.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, 7.5 assists and 1.0 steals per game on 41.7% shooting in 52 games with the LA Lakers this season. He did not appear in a single game for the Jazz following his trade to Utah at the trade deadline.
Also read: What is Russell Westbrook's contract with LA Clippers? Salary, duration, and more
Patrick Beverley on Russell Westbrook joining the LA Clippers
After Russell Westbrook decided to join the LA Clippers, he received some positive feedback regarding the organization from former teammate Patrick Beverley.
Beverly played 42 games with Westbrook this season for the LA Lakers before being traded to the Orlando Magic and getting bought out. The 11-year NBA veteran point guard has since agreed to a deal with the Chicago Bulls. He notably spent four seasons with the Clippers from 2017 to 2021.
During a recent episode of his podcast, “The Pat Bev Podcast with Rone,” Beverley explained what he texted Westbrook when he heard the news:
“I texted him soon as I heard about it, and he texted me right back. I said, ‘Man you’re gonna love it there. You’re gonna love it there man, you’re gonna love it there.’”
He then went in-depth on why he loved his time with the Clippers so much.
“Just the detail of the organization. The detail of the game-planning, the detail of preparation, being ready, how to attack a team every single game, no matter where you’re at, no matter if you’re on the road … I think he’ll appreciate that.”
Also read: LA Clippers depth chart: What can their starting 5 look like after acquiring Russell Westbrook?