Russell Westbrook was told by the Denver Nuggets to not pick up his $3.5 million player option last offseason, which led to his departure from the team and a protracted free agency where he only signed with the Sacramento Kings in October.
Westbrook averaged 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds and 6.1 assists last season for the Nuggets. Westbrook provided energy and production, but was inconsistent at times.
“The truth is that they didn’t want me back,” he said. “It ain’t up to me. God always has a plan. Be patient. Not up to me. They don’t want me. That’s OK. Somebody else do.”
Westbrook could have picked his option and possibly forced his way on to the Nuggets again unless they were prepared to waive or trade him. The Nuggets asked Westbrook not to pick up his option.
“They told me not to,” said Westbrook. “I don’t go anywhere I’m not wanted. I don’t need to.”
The Nuggets fired both Michael Malone as head coach and Calvin Booth as general manager late last season. Denver elevated David Adelman to head coach, while putting Ben Tenzer and Jon Wallace in charge of running the front office. The Nuggets also traded Michael Porter Jr. for Cam Johnson, while letting DeAndre Jordan leave in free agency.
Westbrook is looking forward with the Kings and scored 26 points to go with 12 rebounds and six assists in Monday’s game against the Nuggets in a 130-124 loss.
“I’m grateful for the Kings, and I’m moving forward,” Westbrook said. “Whatever happened in the past happened. It’s OK. Everything happens for a reason. I’m looking forward to the future and finishing out this year.”