Once the free agent market opened up at 6 PM(ET) Monday evening, LA Clippers fans worldwide constantly refreshed their social media feeds, hoping Shams Charania or another credible source would announce the signing of a point guard or center.
A bit of time passed, and finally, Charania reported that the Clippers had surprisingly acquired Brook Lopez from the Milwaukee Bucks. This move was pivotal, as Lopez may have his flaws on the defensive perimeter, but he was considered one of the best signings of the summer for the value LA got him at (two years, $18 million).
Following Lopez, the next and likely last signing Clipper fans were keeping an eye out for was Chris Paul. Hours went by and days passed, and still, Paul has not made his decision. Most thought it would happen much faster, as his wish was to play at home near family, but the veteran guard is still evaluating the everyone's interest.
Simultaneously, another experienced guard, Russell Westbrook, is still unsigned and scanning the room for his next destination. He has played on several teams, including the Clippers, whom he recently sent to Cancun in the playoffs. Yet, the latest rumors suggest that, similar to Paul, he would like to play near his home in Los Angeles.
Of course, this immediately makes the Clippers an option. If Paul chooses the Lakers or even a team like the Phoenix Suns, LA could begin a nightmare they have already survived by reuniting with the iconic triple-double king.
Sources say Russell Westbrook has a desire to dominate Los Angeles, and the Clippers would be making a mistake by signing him this summer
As per Marc J. Spears, Russell Westbrook's wish is to return to the area where he grew up. Spears mentions the Sacramento Kings as a team in the mix, but with them signing Dennis Schröder to a three-year deal, the former MVP is essentially taken off their radar.
Furthermore, Chris Paul signing with a team not named the Clippers would inevitably make LA more desperate. This could reach a point where Westbrook makes an unexpected homecoming and is signed to a veteran minimum.
Adding Westbrook would be an atrocious move from executive Lawrence Frank, as he has already seen, up close, the flaws possessed by him on a championship-contending roster. The nine-time All-Star's inability to shoot consistently should automatically lead to his name being added to the must-avoid list this offseason.
However, these rumors portray otherwise, suggesting that an unescapable disaster could again arise for head coach Tyronn Lue and the Clippers.