Russell Westbrook to return to Clippers after opting in to contract

Russell Westbrook, the guard for the Clippers, had strong averages last season of 11.1 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game while primarily coming off the bench. Despite shooting 45.4% from the field, he struggled from the three-point range at 27.3%. In the playoffs against the Dallas Mavericks, Westbrook’s performance dipped with 6.3 points per game and shooting just 26% from the field and 23.5% from three-point range.

He has chosen to pick up his player option for the 2024-25 season, returning to the Clippers for $4 million. Westbrook proved to be productive coming off the bench after the acquisition of James Harden. This was a role he embraced, unlike when he played for the Lakers. Additionally, forward P.J. Tucker opted into his player option for $11.5 million, ensuring his return to the team.

Forward Paul George is currently negotiating a contract extension and has a player option worth $48.7 million on his contract. Meanwhile, the Clippers signed Trentyn Flowers to a two-way contract. Flowers, a 6-7 wing player, previously played in Australia. These moves show the Clippers are making adjustments and additions to their roster to strengthen the team.