Russell Westbrook plans to sign with LA Clippers after Utah buyout

Matt John
Feb 20 2023

It looks like Russell Westbrook won't be leaving anything in Los Angeles except for his former franchise.

According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the nine-time All-Star guard plans to sign with the LA Clippers after he is bought out by the Utah Jazz.

Westbrook was traded by the Lakers a day before the NBA trade deadline in a three-team transaction between the Jazz and Minnesota Timberwolves, leaving many to speculate where the 34-year-old would land next. Nearly two weeks later, we have our answer.

To the approval of Paul George — who's been lobbying for his friend to come join his squad for over a week — Russ will be reuniting with PG as the veteran-laden Clippers get set to make a hard push before the NBA Playoffs.

It's yet to be seen what role Westbrook will play with this particular LA group, but Ty Lue tends to work his best with older, more seasoned players to find a niche. Despite what is portrayed on the outside, Russ has the respect of many throughout the league as a consummate professional and teammate.

Once made official, the Clippers will be Westbrook's third team in five years. He comes in averaging a career-low 15.9 points a night as a sixth man with the Lakers, but is still dishing out 7.5 assists, pulling down 6.2 rebounds and nabbing a steal per contest.