Russell Westbrook is disputing reports that there was tension between him and the Los Angeles Clippers as he transitioned from a starter to a bench player in November.
Westbrook addressed the rumors on his Instagram story the day after the Los Angeles Clippers were eliminated in six games by Luka Dončić and the Dallas Mavericks.
“Understand that anything you read about what I’ve said or haven’t said has likely been fabricated,” Westbrook wrote.
The Clippers star continued: “I for one enjoyed my year, and worked hard to bring the energy, and provide a spark for our team with each opportunity I was given. I felt that I was and remain more than willing to take on new roles, and make certain sacrifices in hope that it would make our team better.
“I hoped for a different outcome, but I also enjoyed being in the trenches with my teammates this year who have been supportive of me throughout the season. I hope to come back better, stronger, and remain eager to take on any role that continues to put us in the best position to win next season!”
Westbrook recorded six points, one rebound, one assist and one steal in nine minutes on the court during the Clippers’ Game 6 elimination loss.
In five playoff games prior he averaged 6.4 points and 4.8 rebounds against the Mavericks.
Westbrook currently has a player option worth just over $4 million to stay with the Clippers for the 2024-25 season.
The veteran has until June 29 to decide on the option. His Saturday night post indicates he plans to take it, or sign a new deal with Los Angeles if the team offers.
Westbrook joined the Clippers as a free agent in February 2023.
Between his midseason arrival and the beginning of the 2023-24 campaign, Westbrook played 26 straight games as the Clippers’ starting point guard.
Then Los Angeles traded for James Harden at the end of October, a move that eventually pushed Westbrook out of the starting lineup.
Westbrook’s availability was further limited when he underwent surgery on a fractured hand in March. He finished the regular season having averaged a career-low 22.5 minutes and 11.1 points per game.
The veteran guard showed flashes of his old skill following his return from injury. After recording double-digit points totals five times in an eight-game April stretch, Westbrook earned his first starting nod of the calendar year and ended up playing almost 40 minutes in a win over the Phoenix Suns.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, Los Angeles wants head coach Ty Lue and free agent stars Paul George and James Harden to return next season alongside Kawhi Leonard. It sounds like Westbrook hopes to be there as the Clippers run it back with their current core.