NBA Rumors: Russell Westbrook intends to finalize next destination after All-Star break
Russell Westbrook is no longer with the LA Lakers. The veteran point guard was traded to the Utah Jazz just before the NBA trade deadline, but he may not play a single game for them.
As great as Westbrook is, he simply wasn't a good fit for the Lakers. Getting rid of him and his massive contract is the right move as it allows the team to compete and make a strong playoff push.
The nine-time All-Star is one of the buyout candidates this season. However, it appears that he won't be bought out before the All-Star break.
Russell Westbrook to be bought out after the All-Star break
With a contract of almost $47.1 million, Westbrook is the second highest-paid player in the entire league. Only Steph Curry of the Golden State Warriors will receive more money for his services this season.
Westbrook seems willing to play for his new team, but there may not be mutual interest. Due to this, he will most likely be bought out and will be able to sign a contract with a new team.
According to Adrian Wojnarowski, the veteran point guard will take time to make a decision regarding his future. The NBA insider reports that Westbrook will most likely make his decision after the All-Star break.
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It's important to note that a contract buyout is a mutual agreement between a team and a player. However, the Jazz cannot guarantee that Westbrook will be a part of their rotation as they want to focus on the development of their young players.
Russell Westbrook, on the other hand, would be better off playing for a competitor and possibly winning his first championship ring. However, he will have to reach a buyout agreement by March 1 to be eligible for a playoff roster.
Which team will sign Westbrook after the buyout?
Russell Westbrook's buyout seems inevitable, which is why several teams are interested in acquiring him once he's a free agent. Considering how competitive the point guard is, he'd be a great fit for a championship contender.
The LA Clippers are among the teams interested in Westbrook's services. This would allow the point guard to reunite with Paul George, his former teammate in Oklahoma City.
The Miami Heat and Chicago Bulls are also interested in Westbrook's services. The Bulls are currently in the 10th spot in the Eastern Conference and could use the point guard to make a strong playoff push.
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The Heat haven't made any big moves before the trade deadline and seem interested in signing players who get bought out. Considering how bad Kyle Lowry has been this season, Russell Westbrook would be a decent pickup for Miami.