### Russell Westbrook Declines Player Option with Nuggets, Set to Enter Free Agency Russell Westbrook, the veteran guard for the Denver Nuggets, has officially declined his player option for the 2025-26 NBA season, which was valued at $3.5 million. This decision will make him an unrestricted free agent starting June 30, 2025. Westbrook's tenure with the Nuggets began last offseason when he signed a two-year deal worth $6.8 million, and he quickly became a fan favorite due to his dynamic play and strong chemistry with star center Nikola Jokic. However, following the Nuggets' playoff exit in the second round against the Oklahoma City Thunder, speculation about Westbrook's future with the team has intensified, especially given reports of internal team tensions during the playoffs [https://sports.yahoo.com/nba/breaking-news/article/russell-westbrook-declines-player-option-with-nuggets-will-become-free-agent-report-135535795.html, https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/russell_westbrook_declining_2025_26_player_option_with_nuggets/s1_17038_42323818.html]. ### Breakdown of Westbrook's Decision and Its Implications 1. **Player Option Decline**: Westbrook has opted out of his $3.5 million player option, signaling his intent to explore free agency [https://sports.yahoo.com/article/russell-westbrook-set-decline-3-180911027.html]. 2. **Performance Overview**: During the 2024-25 season, Westbrook averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds per game, showcasing his continued ability to contribute despite being in the latter stages of his career [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/russell_westbrook_has_bad_news_for_denver_nuggets_fans/s1_17201_42323445]. 3. **Team Dynamics**: Reports indicate that there were tensions within the Nuggets, particularly involving Westbrook and teammate Aaron Gordon, which may have influenced his decision to leave [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/russell_westbrook_declining_2025_26_player_option_with_nuggets/s1_17038_42323818.html]. 4. **Future Prospects**: As Westbrook enters free agency, he will have the opportunity to negotiate with other teams, potentially seeking a more favorable situation or contract [https://www.denverpost.com/2025/06/13/russell-westbrook-decline-player-option-free-agency-nuggets]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Season Statistics**: - Points per game: **13.3** - Assists per game: **6.1** - Rebounds per game: **4.9** - Field goal percentage: **44.9%** - Three-point percentage: **32.3%** - Free throw percentage: **66.1%** - Games played: **75** (starting in **36** of them) [https://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/russell_westbrook_declining_2025_26_player_option_with_nuggets/s1_17038_42323818.html, https://www.denverpost.com/2025/06/13/russell-westbrook-decline-player-option-free-agency-nuggets]. ### Conclusion: Westbrook's Future in the NBA In summary, **Russell Westbrook's decision to decline his player option with the Denver Nuggets marks a significant turning point in his career**. As he prepares to enter free agency, several factors will influence his next steps: 1. **Performance and Experience**: Westbrook's solid performance this past season demonstrates his ongoing value as a player. 2. **Team Relationships**: Internal team dynamics may have played a role in his decision, suggesting a need for a fresh start. 3. **Free Agency Opportunities**: With the chance to negotiate with other teams, Westbrook could find a situation that better suits his career goals. As the NBA offseason approaches, all eyes will be on Westbrook to see where he lands next [https://www.newsday.com/sports/basketball/russell-westbrook-free-agency-nba-e25211, https://www.denver7.com/sports/nuggets/denver-nuggets-guard-russell-westbrook-to-become-free-agent-june-30-espn-reports].