Russell Westbrook, Nuggets Reunion Reportedly 'in Play' After Contract Option Declined

After a solid first season with the Denver Nuggets, a reunion with veteran Russell Westbrook is "in play," per The Stein Line's Marc Stein after he declined his $3.47 million player option for the 2025-26 season.

Despite opting out, there’s belief that the nine-time NBA All-Star could return, giving the Nuggets added roster flexibility heading into the summer.

After the 36-year-old declined his player option on Friday to become a free agent beginning June 30, speculation swirled about his next destination. However, it now appears Denver may look to bring him back—and Westbrook appears to be open to a reunion.

In his first season with the Nuggets, Westbrook averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists and 4.9 rebounds on 44.9 percent shooting from the field across 27.9 minutes per game in 75 appearances.

Denver finished 50-32 before falling to the Oklahoma City Thunder in seven games in the Western Conference semifinals.

The idea of running it back with Denver — and playing alongside two-time MVP Nikola Jokić, who reportedly put in “behind-the-scenes work” to help land Westbrook during his last free agency — has to be appealing.

"I've been told that Nikola Jokić actually has been pushing behind the scenes to get Westbrook to Denver," DNVR Denver Nuggets Podcast's, Harrison Wind said. "I've been told that Nikola Jokić wants Westbrook in Denver. He wants to play with him. It's not the first time he's wanted to play with him."

Pairing with one of the league’s best in Jokić on a team just two years removed from a championship gives Westbrook a legitimate shot at chasing the elusive title that’s evaded him over his 17-year career.