In a stunning move just ahead of the 2025 NBA playoffs, the Denver Nuggets have announced the termination of Russell Westbrook’s contract, effectively ending his brief tenure with the team.
The news broke early this afternoon, sending shockwaves throughout the league. The Nuggets issued a statement expressing appreciation for Westbrook’s contributions but noted that the decision was made after careful consideration of the team’s needs heading into the postseason.
“After much deliberation, we have decided to part ways with Russell,” said Nuggets General Manager Calvin Booth in a press release. “Russell brought tremendous energy and leadership to our locker room. However, in light of our current goals and the team’s direction, we feel this is the best decision for all parties involved.”
Westbrook, 36, joined the Nuggets mid-season in 2024, providing depth and experience to the Nuggets’ second unit. Despite flashes of his former MVP-level play, his fit with Denver’s system had often been called into question, particularly during critical stretches of the season. His shooting struggles and inconsistent playmaking had been a source of frustration for both fans and coaching staff.
The decision to let go of Westbrook, especially with the team entering the playoffs as one of the top contenders in the Western Conference, is a bold one. Insider reports suggest that the move was not entirely performance-based; sources indicate that there had been internal conflicts surrounding Westbrook’s role and the overall team chemistry.
In his brief time with the Nuggets, Westbrook averaged 9.4 points, 4.8 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game, but his impact was often overshadowed by concerns about his fit in Coach Michael Malone’s offense.
As Denver prepares for a postseason run, the team will now rely even more heavily on their core of Nikola Jokić, Jamal Murray, and Michael Porter Jr. The Nuggets have not announced a replacement for Westbrook, but there’s speculation that they may call up a younger player or make a trade before the playoffs officially begin.
For Westbrook, the news marks another chapter in his roller-coaster NBA career. Sources say he is already weighing his options for free agency and has drawn interest from multiple playoff-contending teams looking to add depth at the guard position.
