Russell Westbrook spills the truth why he left Denver despite having player option

Russell Westbrook Reveals Why He Left Denver

After a long offseason full of uncertainty, Russell Westbrook found a new home with the Sacramento Kings, starting his 18th NBA season. The veteran guard revealed that his departure from the Denver Nuggets was not his decision.

“The truth is that they didn’t want me back,” Westbrook told The Denver Post. “Somebody else did.”

Westbrook had a player option for the 2025–26 season after signing a one-year deal with Denver in the summer of 2024. However, when he returned to face his former team on Monday, he clarified that the Nuggets asked him not to exercise that option.

In that matchup, Westbrook turned in an outstanding performance with 26 points, 12 rebounds, and 6 assists, showing he still had plenty to offer on the court.

During his season in Denver, Westbrook found new life coming off the bench, averaging 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game. Despite his steady production, the team opted to move in a different direction for the following year.

“I thought it was great,” he said of his season with the Nuggets. “I guess other people didn’t.”

Reflecting on his brief Denver tenure, he emphasized his optimistic viewpoint on every chapter of his career.

“Every part of this journey for me is always a positive impact.”
Author’s Summary

Westbrook disclosed that leaving Denver was not his choice, as the Nuggets declined his return despite his strong season and consistent playmaking performance.

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BasketNews.com BasketNews.com — 2025-11-05

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