How Far Russell Westbrook’s Market Has Fallen
Russell Westbrook is a first-ballot Hall of Famer, an MVP, and one of the most accomplished players in NBA history. But as free agency winds down, the nine-time All-Star is still without a team—and his market may be on hold while Ben Simmons makes his decision.
Westbrook’s résumé speaks for itself. He’s:
- A former MVP and two-time scoring champion
- A three-time assists leader
- In the top 25 all-time in points, assists, and steals
- The first player in over 50 years to average a triple-double for an entire season—doing it four times in total
Yet despite remaining productive—averaging 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds per game last season—Westbrook is reportedly being passed over for Simmons, a player whose career has been defined more by potential than production.
Teams Prefer Simmons’ Versatility Over Westbrook’s Experience
Simmons, at 6-foot-10, offers defensive versatility and playmaking, averaging 5.0 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.7 rebounds last year. While his offensive limitations remain glaring, he’s seen as a connector who can defend multiple positions.
Westbrook, meanwhile, accepted a reduced role as a full-time backup, posting the fewest shot attempts per 36 minutes (14.3) of his career while hitting 34.2% on wide-open threes. He showed signs of adapting, but teams seem more inclined toward Simmons’ defensive upside despite his lower ceiling.
Potential Destinations for Westbrook
The Kings, Suns, Knicks, and Celtics have all been linked to Simmons, according to multiple reports. Any of those teams that miss out on Simmons could turn their attention to Westbrook.
However, the Knicks are likely less interested in Westbrook due to their focus on defensive versatility rather than bench playmaking.
If Westbrook lands with one of the remaining teams, it would mark his 18th NBA season, seventh different franchise, and possibly his last chance to chase the one thing missing from his résumé: a championship.
