Russell Westbrook ‘absolutely’ considered staying with Jazz after Lakers trade

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During pregame introductions on Friday evening at the Delta Center, the mention of Russell Westbrook’s name was met with a chorus of boos from the packed crowd. However, earlier that morning in an empty arena, Westbrook couldn’t help but smile when the Utah Jazz was mentioned.

Westbrook expressed his gratitude towards the Utah Jazz, stating, “I’m grateful for them, just because – for many reasons,” he said.

These days, Westbrook is often seen with a smile on his face. At the age of 35, he has found comfort and companionship with the Clippers. “It’s a place where I’m comfortable, with people that I like and want to be around,” Westbrook expressed. He credits this change to the day he signed with the Clippers on Feb. 20, instantly feeling like he could be himself with teammates like Paul George and coach Tyronn Lue.

However, none of this would have been possible without the Jazz. Westbrook was traded to the Jazz on Feb. 8, and they bought out the remaining balance on his $47-million salary from last season. This paved the way for Westbrook to become a free agent, sign with the Los Angeles Clippers, and begin a revival in the late stage of his career.

Westbrook’s 12 days as a member of the Utah Jazz will be remembered as a footnote in his 15th NBA season. The season was overshadowed by the turmoil he experienced with the Lakers before being traded. Westbrook expressed his relief after the trade, stating, “I was relieved on all levels.” However, his time with the Clippers marks a resurgence in his career.

Despite the short duration of his time with the Jazz, Westbrook admitted that he had seriously considered remaining with the team.

Westbrook expressed his willingness to do whatever it took to contribute to the Jazz, stating, “I would have come in and done whatever they asked me to do. I told them I could be a mentor and do whatever was needed to help the team. Like always, I do whatever is best for the team. If that meant sitting on the sideline and helping the young guys in street clothes, I would do it.”

Following the trade, Westbrook stayed in Los Angeles and did not make the trip to Utah. Instead, he engaged in conversations with coach Will Hardy, assistants, and players he had known from previous teams. He also had discussions with basketball executive Danny Ainge and owner Ryan Smith as they all considered their mutual fit.

Westbrook’s desire was to join a playoff contender, which the rebuilding Jazz could not provide. Additionally, the Jazz could not guarantee Westbrook consistent playing time, as they prioritized the development of younger players. Despite this, the Jazz assured Westbrook that they would welcome him if he chose to report.

Prior to the trade, Westbrook had never experienced a midseason trade or a buyout. As a max-contract player and being named one of the NBA’s 75 greatest players, he had confidence that he would land with another team, given the interest expressed by the Clippers and other organizations. However, before making any decisions to move on, he had to determine if it made more sense for him to stay in Utah.

Reflecting on his time with the Jazz, Westbrook acknowledged that he didn’t feel like he fit into the team’s plans at that moment. However, he expressed his appreciation for their honesty and upfront communication. He stated, “I appreciate them being super honest and upfront with me, and it’s easier that way.”

This story was originally published in the Los Angeles Times.

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