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Denver Nuggets
Aug 20, 2025 4:09 PM EDT
Following a productive first season with the Denver Nuggets, Russell Westbrook declined his $3.4 million player option for 2025–26, making him an unrestricted free agent. Last year, he averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds across 75 games, offering veteran leadership and consistent production whenever called upon. With his contribution, the Nuggets earned the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference before losing to Oklahoma City Thunder in the second round of the playoffs.
Now deep into August without signing a new deal, Westbrook’s future remains uncertain. That said, it was reported by ESPN’s Tim MacMahon earlier this month that league sources view the Sacramento Kings as Westbrook’s likeliest destination in NBA free agency.
Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook
Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook (4) — Source: © Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Denver Nuggets’ Post Sparks Russell Westbrook Speculation
While Sacramento is deemed Westbrook’s likeliest next team, the Nuggets made a post on Wednesday that sparked speculation of a possible reunion with the 2017 league MVP. In celebration of World Photography Day, the Nuggets took to X to deliver some light-hearted content.
“Yesterday was World Photography Day, but the guys didn’t answer their DMs, so enjoy these today,” the team captioned.
What fans noticed was Aaron Gordon’s photo — a snapshot of himself dapping up Westbrook. This struck a chord with Nuggets fans who saw it as a sign that Westbrook returning to Denver is not out of the picture.
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“You know what to do @russwest44,” one fan implored.
“Russ just come back bro,” another added.
“please Come home @russwest44,” a third fan mentioned.
“Russ is coming back???” asked another.
Several Westbrook fans also shared the post, reminiscing about last season while remaining hopeful about a return to Denver.
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“@russwest44 resign,” another fan said.
“Please Bring him back cowards @nuggets,” a fan urged the Nuggets
“Sign Russ rn,” another fan said.
“Tell Russ to pick up the phone,” another fan remarked.
Although Westbrook remains unsigned for now, the sentiments show that Denver fans have not forgotten his contributions and appear eager to welcome him back.
Russell Westbrook’s Fit On the New-look Nuggets
Westbrook remains a compelling free agent option despite his age. He has been one of the fiercest competitors in NBA history—ranking No. 8 all-time in assists and No. 1 in triple-doubles. His energy and toughness added a valuable dimension to Denver’s depth chart in 2024-25, where he excelled in relief of starters.
Should the Nuggets re-sign him, Westbrook would provide grit, playmaking, and familiarity alongside Nikola Jokic. He knows the system, understands his role, and can still deliver. For a Nuggets team balancing experience and development, bringing Westbrook back could reinforce their bench while preserving continuity—making a return a natural fit on multiple levels.
That said, the team has already signed Bruce Brown and Tim Hardaway Jr. this offseason, leaving little room remaining in the second unit backcourt.
About the Author
Ayomide Adeduyite
Trending News Writer, Athlon Sports
Ayomide Adeduyite is a contributing writer for the Athlon Sports trending and breaking news team.