Russell Westbrook was believed to be on his way out from the NBA following his stint with the Los Angeles Lakers, but last season, the Los Angeles Clippers trusted the former MVP.
Russ didn’t break the Clippers’ trust, as he had a huge impact on the team in the second half of the season.
Sure, the Clippers were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Phoenix Suns in five games.
Despite an early exit from the playoffs, the Clippers re-signed Westbrook to a two-year, $7.8 million deal.
Speaking of the deal, Kawhi Leonard shared his thoughts on having Westbrook back on the Clippers via Joey Linn on Twitter.
“It’s very important having him back,” Leonard said.
Kawhi Leonard on Russell Westbrook:
“It’s very important having him back… Now we got a Hall-of-Fame point guard that’s been through it. I think that’s going to be big for us coming into the year.”
🎥: @LAClippers on IG pic.twitter.com/QdNQgPv0N7
— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) September 21, 2023
Westbrook is indeed a future Basketball Hall of Famer, and he’s still a sensational player.
Sure, he may not be in his prime, but the Clippers can perfectly utilize the current version of him.
He can distribute the ball with ease and make his teammates better.
Leonard believes having Westbrook back on the roster will prove beneficial for the Clippers.
Westbrook averaged 15.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 7.6 assists per game in the 2022-23 season.
It’s obvious that Westbrook is the third option for the Clippers, as the organization already has a dynamic duo in Leonard and Paul George.
The duo can take care of the scoring duties for the franchise, while Russ can focus on being an elite playmaker.
Moreover, Westbrook can always contribute as a scorer for the team.
Will the three-headed dragon be enough for the Clippers to finally win their first NBA championship in franchise history?
