Russell Westbrook has been a key focus for the LA Clippers since their initial elimination by the Phoenix Suns. President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank expressed their desire to re-sign Westbrook, and despite considering various point guard options in the meantime, Frank reaffirmed on Thursday night that the Clippers remain steadfast in their hopes of securing Westbrook’s return.
Frank, when asked if the Clippers still hope to re-sign Russell Westbrook, said
“Very much so. Now, Russ is a free agent, and he gets to choose. He did a phenomenal job during his time with the Clippers. He’s obviously had a Hall of Fame career, one of the top-75 of all time. We want Russ back but also respect the fact that he’s a free agent and has a right to choose, but hopefully we can keep him a Clipper.”
How important is Russell Westbrook to Clippers?
Woj:
"I think the Clippers see a world potentially where it's Russell Westbrook and Chris Paul together… if, of course, Chris Paul becomes free.
I don’t see a scenario necessarily where the Clippers are going to be the team that trades for Chris Paul right now." pic.twitter.com/vdHoXRkhVP
— Courtside Clips (@Courtside_Clips) June 19, 2023
Throughout the offseason, the Clippers have been associated with various point guards, but many of those options have chosen different destinations. Nevertheless, it appears that Russell Westbrook remains the top choice for the Clippers in that position. Despite facing limitations in terms of what they can offer him, the same holds true for most other competitive teams. This circumstance could potentially bolster the Clippers’ chances of retaining Westbrook, as they navigate the landscape with a relatively level playing field in terms of contract negotiations.
During his tenure with the Clippers, Russell Westbrook showcased his brilliance and made a significant impact as both a team leader and a player. His contributions extended beyond his on-court performance, as he displayed leadership qualities off the court as well. Recognizing the unique attributes and value that Westbrook brings, the Clippers are optimistic about their chances of re-signing him this summer. They acknowledge that his distinct skill set and contributions may be irreplaceable, fueling their desire to bring him back into the fold for the upcoming season.
Source: Si.com
