Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook has officially chosen to decline his $3.4 million player option for the upcoming 2025–26 NBA season, opting instead to test free agency this summer.
The former MVP had signed a two-year veteran minimum deal with Denver last offseason, which included the option to return for a second year.
In his first season with the Nuggets, Westbrook served as both a reliable sixth man and occasional starter. He appeared in 75 games, starting 36 of them, and delivered solid production across the board: 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, 6.1 assists, and 1.4 steals per game.
His experience and energy were especially valuable when stars like Jamal Murray or Michael Porter Jr. were out of the lineup due to injury.
The 36-year-old guard played a pivotal role in helping Denver remain competitive throughout the regular season, though the team ultimately fell short in the playoffs, suffering a second-round exit at the hands of the Oklahoma City Thunder – Westbrook’s original NBA team.
After the loss, Westbrook had been noncommittal about his future in the league, saying he was still weighing his options.
However, by opting out of his contract and entering free agency, he has now signaled that he intends to continue his playing career, potentially entering his 18th season in the NBA.
With his trademark intensity and veteran leadership still in demand, Westbrook could draw interest from contenders looking to bolster their backcourt depth with a proven presence.
Russell Westbrook To Decline $3.4M Player Option With Nuggets https://t.co/cKYJViWDSC
— RealGM (@RealGM) June 13, 2025
