Russell Westbrook looks to be heading back to Los Angeles – this time with the Clippers once a buyout of his expiring contract has been completed.
Westbrook’s agent, Jeff Schwartz, was reported as telling ESPN that the former Los Angeles Lakers guard has committed to signing for the Clippers once the 34-year-old and Utah Jazz have completed a buyout of the $47million remaining on his expiring deal.
Westbrook was traded by the Lakers to the Jazz along with a 2027 first-round draft pick as part of a three-team deal on February 15, 2023.
However, Jazz CEO Danny Ainge, GM Justin Zanik and head coach Will Hardy informed him that they would welcome him reporting to the team.
They are prioritising their younger players Westbrook was given no assurances on game-time or what role he would play either.
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The nine-time All Star had reportedly discussed deals with Chicago Bulls, Washington Wizards and Miami Heat too.
But the chance to compete for a championship with the Clippers and remain in Los Angeles proved the deciding factors.
After finalizing a contract buyout with the Utah Jazz, nine-time All-Star guard Russell Westbrook plans to sign with the Los Angeles Clippers, his agent Jeff Schwartz of @excelbasketball tells ESPN. pic.twitter.com/OjZ0Mkuz5x
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 20, 2023
