Once the postseason ended, many LA Clipper fans feared that Russell Westbrook would leave in free agency. He proved himself in a small stint with the Clippers, ultimately paving the way for a more significant contract.
Furthermore, in 21 regular season games for the Clippers, the former MVP averaged 15.8 points, 7.6 assists, and 4.9 rebounds. However, before his debut, fans worried that his shooting would crush the team’s playoff hopes. This was not the case, as he shot 48.9% from the field and 35.6% from a distance. Not to mention Westbrook had several dominant performances, which helped LA reach the fifth seed.
Moreover, Westbrook flipped the switch once the postseason turned the corner. Despite losing in five games to Phoenix, the two-time scoring champion posted 23.6 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 7.6 assists. He also shot 41.0% from the field, 35.7% from three, and 88.0% from the line.
Russell Westbrook returns to the LA Clippers on the best contract in the NBA.
Following rumors that Russell Westbrook would take his time to make a decision, the LA Clippers quickly negotiated a deal once free agency began. That said, Westbrook will return for two more seasons on a contract worth nearly $8 million. This also includes an option in his second year.
Breaking: Russell Westbrook has agreed on a two-year, nearly $8M deal to stay with the Clippers, his agent tells @wojespn. pic.twitter.com/r9swDUcG7N
— ESPN (@espn) July 1, 2023
This signing was the biggest priority for the LA Clippers this off-season. With Westbrook possibly returning for two more years, head coach Tyronn Lue will be running it back to make a run for a title. Now, it is time for the front office to add more star power around their superstar duo.