Could a reunion between the Washington Wizards and Russell Westbrook possibly be in the works?
Washington was one of four teams to reach out to the former MVP as he explores a possible buyout with the Utah Jazz, according to a report. ESPN reported Wednesday that the Jazz — who acquired Westbrook from the Los Angeles Lakers in a trade last week — have granted the point guard permission to speak with teams interested in his services. Westbrook, according to the outlet, has also spoken with the Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Clippers and Miami Heat.
Westbrook played only one season for the Wizards, but it was an eventful one as the nine-time All-Star averaged a triple-double and helped rally Washington to the playoffs. During that 2020-21 season, Westbrook surpassed Oscar Robertson as the NBA’s all-time leader in triple doubles.
But Westbrook’s career has changed dramatically since then. After his lone year with Washington, he was traded to Los Angeles — a deal that ended up being a disaster for the guard and the team. Westbrook proved to be an awkward fit alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis, and was moved to a bench role this season. He’s shooting only 41.7% this campaign, his lowest mark since his rookie year.
The Wizards, meanwhile, don’t currently have an open roster spot, but they could soon have one as the team reportedly plans on buying out guard Will Barton. General manager Tommy Sheppard, though, has said the plan is to fill Barton’s spot by signing two-way player Jordan Goodwin.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Westbrook has spoken with teams to gauge “what a potential fit might look like, what a role might look” like. The Wizards have primarily used Monte Morris and Delon Wright at point guard this season.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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