Did Russel Westbrook Retire? Nuggets Reunion Dreams Crushed by Shocking Bad News
The 36-year-old guard turned down his £2.7m Denver deal, fuelling rumours of retirement as his NBA future remains uncertain.
The future of Russell Westbrook with the Denver Nuggets has been thrown into uncertainty after the veteran guard declined his $3.47 million (£2.7m) player option for the 2025–26 season. The 36-year-old, who has played 17 years in the NBA, officially entered free agency in June.
His decision, combined with Denver's turbulent end to last season, has sparked widespread speculation across the United States. Fans are asking whether Westbrook has retired, if a Nuggets reunion was ever realistic, and what his next move might be.
Westbrook Declines Option to Enter Free Agency
Westbrook's choice to turn down the contract option means he will not return to Denver, where he featured in 75 games last season. According to ESPN, he averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists and 4.9 rebounds per game before undergoing right-hand surgery at the end of the campaign.
By declining the deal, Westbrook opted to test the market at a stage of his career where his role has shifted from franchise star to veteran contributor. At 36, the former MVP now faces questions about whether his trademark physicality and relentless style of play can still succeed in today's NBA.
Nuggets Fallout and the 'Bad News' Narrative
The Nuggets' season ended in turmoil both on and off the court. Reports suggested that Westbrook's role, along with perceived preferential treatment, created friction in the locker room. His late-season performances and disagreements over team dynamics were cited as factors in the unrest.
'All the while, Malone's choice to continue supporting Westbrook — despite the frustration he was causing on and off the floor — ultimately led to a loss of credibility among the team's key players,' wrote Tony Jones and Sam Amick in The Athletic.
The fallout culminated in the dismissal of head coach Michael Malone and general manager Calvin Booth. The front-office shake-up, described as bad news for Westbrook's future in Denver, effectively closed the door on any chance of a reunion.
Did Russell Westbrook Retire? Rumours Gain Momentum
The uncertainty has fuelled rumours that Westbrook may have already played his last NBA game. Searches such as 'Did Russell Westbrook retire?' have begun trending, with fans pointing to his age, injuries and declining minutes as evidence he could walk away from the sport.
There is also speculation that if he cannot secure a suitable landing spot for next season, he may consider retirement. Some have even floated the possibility of a surprise return to Denver for one more title run.
Westbrook himself has not addressed retirement speculation publicly. His silence has only added to the uncertainty, especially as NBA training camps draw closer and roster spots begin to fill.
Potential Landing Spots Still in Play
Despite the rumours, potential destinations remain. Reports have linked Westbrook to the Milwaukee Bucks, who could see value in his veteran leadership and ability to energise the second unit. Analysts remain cautious, however, citing concerns about turnovers, ball dominance and how his style would mesh with established stars.
Fans also continue to dream of a reunion with the Oklahoma City Thunder, where Westbrook began his career and became an icon. Such a move would be a fitting conclusion to a remarkable journey. Yet recent reporting suggests a return to Oklahoma is unlikely, leaving his NBA future increasingly uncertain.
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