Russell Westbrook Reportedly Unlikely to Join Knicks After Jordan Clarkson Contract
The New York Knicks are unlikely to pursue Russell Westbrook following the signing of Jordan Clarkson, according to Stefan Bondy of the New York Post.
With both players sharing similar styles and roles, there’s little playing time available for Westbrook on the current roster. Bondy also noted that Westbrook is "not the type to sit comfortably on the bench," which further complicates the fit.
Earlier Monday, reports surfaced that Westbrook and the Knicks had "mutual interest" in free agency — but that was before New York signed veteran guard Clarkson, a move that likely closed the door on Westbrook’s potential arrival.
"There will be mutual interest between veteran guard Russell Westbrook and the Knicks when free agency opens, as Knicks are one of several teams who will have interest in Westbrook, league sources say," SNYTV's Ian Begley reported. "Knicks currently have the $5M tax-payer exception and the veteran's minimum exception to offer free agents."
The 17-year vet is an unrestricted free agent after declining his $3.47 million player option with the Denver Nuggets for the 2025–26 season.
In his lone season with Denver, Westbrook spent most of his time coming off the bench, though he made 36 starts. He averaged 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds and 6.1 assists per game while shooting 44.9 percent from the field.
