Westbrook plans to sign with LA Clippers

Nine-time All-Star guard Russell Westbrook is planning to sign with the LA Clippers after completing a contract buyout with the Utah Jazz, his agent Jeff Schwartz told ESPN.

Breaking: Russell Westbrook plans to sign with the Clippers after finalizing a buyout with the Jazz, his agent tells @wojespn. pic.twitter.com/1GmT6wQmnq

— ESPN (@espn) February 20, 2023

Once Westbrook and the Jazz complete the buyout on the remaining $47 million owed on his expiring deal, the former NBA MVP will clear waivers and return to LA — this time with the Clippers.

The Clippers became increasingly interested with Westbrook with sources saying that team officials, including coach Ty Lue and president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank, dug into a series of conversations with Westbrook.

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Russell Westbrook traded to Utah Jazz and heading to Nuggets

Those discussions centered on 34-year-old Westbrook’s willingness to fit into a clear and specific role with the Clippers built around his playmaking, rebounding and toughness, sources said.

The Clippers have championship aspirations and Westbrook could re-join his former Oklahoma City Thunder teammate Paul George.

Recently, Westbrook talked to the Chicago Bulls, Washington Wizards and Miami Heat but the chance to compete for the title and remain in Los Angeles played a significant part in his decision to choose the Clippers, sources said.

The Los Angeles Lakers traded Westbrook and a 2027 first-round round pick to the Jazz as part of a three-team deal last Wednesday.

Westbrook embraced a sixth-man role for the Lakers, averaging 15.9 points, 6.2 rebounds and 7.5 assists in 28.7 minutes per game.