Nuggets Allegedly Encouraged Russell Westbrook To Decline His Deal Option

On Monday, following the Nuggets' defeat against the Sacramento Kings, Russell Westbrook stirred attention by disclosing the true circumstances surrounding his exit from Denver. The seasoned guard indicated that the Nuggets advised him against exercising his player option, effectively communicating he was not in their future plans. “They didn’t want me back,” Westbrook stated after competing against his former team. “I’m not staying somewhere I’m not wanted.” In his return to Denver, Westbrook made a significant impact on the court, scoring 26 points, alongside 12 rebounds and six assists, contributing to a Kings victory. Last season, the 36-year-old had delivered commendable performances for the Nuggets, averaging 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds over 75 games. Yet, the Nuggets opted to proceed without him. For Westbrook, this situation was intrinsically about respect, as he departed on his own terms, ensuring his reasoning was clear to all.