Russell Westbrook revealed that the Denver Nuggets told him not to pick up his $3.5 million player option last offseason, effectively ending his time with the team and setting the stage for a long free agency that didn’t conclude until October, when he signed with the Sacramento Kings.
Westbrook averaged 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists for Denver last season, providing energy and leadership but struggling with consistency at times. Despite his contributions, he said it was clear the Nuggets didn’t intend to bring him back.
“The truth is that they didn’t want me back,” Westbrook said. “It ain’t up to me. God always has a plan. Be patient. Not up to me. They don’t want me. That’s OK. Somebody else do.”
The 36-year-old guard explained that Denver explicitly asked him not to exercise his option.
“They told me not to,” he said. “I don’t go anywhere I’m not wanted. I don’t need to.”
Following Westbrook’s departure, the Nuggets underwent significant changes, firing head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth.
David Adelman was promoted to head coach, while Ben Tenzer and Jon Wallace took over front-office responsibilities. The team also traded Michael Porter Jr. for Cam Johnson and allowed DeAndre Jordan to leave in free agency.
Now with the Kings, Westbrook says he’s focused on moving forward. In Monday’s 130–124 loss to his former team, he recorded 26 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists.
“I’m grateful for the Kings, and I’m moving forward,” he said. “Whatever happened in the past happened. It’s OK. Everything happens for a reason. I’m looking forward to the future and finishing out this year.”
Nuggets Asked Russell Westbrook Not To Pick Up $3.5M Player Option https://t.co/R4u2D7k5Ps
— RealGM (@RealGM) November 4, 2025
