Clippers 'Looking to Find Trade' for Russell Westbrook; Should Thunder Pursue?

Is it time for Russell Westbrook to return to Oklahoma City?

Dec 21, 2023; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA; LA Clippers guard Russell Westbrook (0) drives around Oklahoma City Thunder guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2) during the second half at Paycom Center. Mandatory Credit: Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports / Alonzo Adams-USA TODAY Sports

Free agency has officially kicked off in the NBA, with Paul George being the big domino that needs to fall for the floodgates to open. Even before that happens, there will be contracts signed. Furthermore, trades are being discussed around the league.

One trade that is being explored as free agency opens is one involving Russell Westbrook of the LA Clippers. After opting into his $4 million option for the upcoming 2024-25 season, the Clippers are looking for a trade partner, as first reported by Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports. It appears he has played his last game with that franchise and will be wearing another new uniform next season.

Now 35 years old, Westbrook is not the player he once was. After starting his career in Oklahoma City with the Thunder and emerging as a star with the franchise, he has been more of an energetic role player in recent years. He is no longer a star, but is still an impactful piece.

While he's on a cheap contract and has ties to the organization, it still isn't time for a Westbrook reunion. He would certainly come off the bench, but is still somewhat ball-dominant even at this point in his career.

Perhaps in the future when he's really at the tail end of his career and can act as more of an end of the bench mentor, Westbrook can make his Thunder reunion and be part of a potential championship group.

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