Russel Westbrook's high energy and fast pace could be exactly what the New Orleans Pelicans need. NBA insider Marc Stein has reported that Westbrook will decline his $3.5 million player option and enter unrestricted free agency. The 36-year-old had a really great season in Denver, averaging 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds in his 75 games.
With the Nuggets' front office usually avoiding paying the tax, the chances of Westbrook returning appear unlikely. However, after the year he had and how he was able to play alongside Nikola Jokic, many teams will be interested in signing the veteran guard. One of those teams should be the New Orleans Pelicans, who will be without their starting point guard at the beginning of the 2025-26 campaign.
Westbrook could bring his 16 years of experience in the NBA to help guide a relatively young and inexperienced Pelicans team. As a former MVP, 9-time All-NBA team member, and a guy who has consistently experienced the playoffs, he could be key in helping Trey Murphy and Zion Williamson grow into leaders
Westbrook's next stop should be New Orleans
Westbrook's fit with the Pelicans would be superb. Even at 36, he still plays with elite pace and energy, which would help open up the Pelicans' fastbreak offense in different ways. Westbrookâs ability to push the pace and create lobs for Yves Missi and Zion Williamson could become a dangerous weapon in transition.
Russ would likely play the role of a setup man with the Pelicans. He is a guy they'd trust to run their offense and find cutters and shooters in rhythm. With the scoring weapons the Pelicans have, Westbrook wouldn't have to worry about forcing shots or being a primary scorer option.
However, there would be nights when the Pelicans would need to rely on Russ to score. That's no issue; we saw when Jamal Murray went down with an injury and Westbrook stepped up. He is still very comfortable scoring.
On November 6th this past season, Westbrook was called into the starting lineup in place of Murray. He exploded against the NBA's best defense, the OKC Thunder, for 29 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists, and helped deliver a Nuggets win.
This is just one example of the big game potential Westbrook still has.
Shooting remains a flaw
The biggest weakness in Russ's offensive game is his shooting, which is nothing new. He is a career 30.5% three-point shooter, and joining a Pelicans team that ranked in the bottom 5 in most three-point statistics last season isn't ideal.
However, Westbrook shot 42% from the corner three on 106 attempts this past year, nearly a career best. This is a very encouraging sign. If New Orleans can keep his long-range attempts focused in that area and reduce off-the-dribble threes, they should be able to live with the results.
Westbrook can help bring a culture shift to the Pelicans
Westbrook can come in and be a voice in the locker room. He can pass on experiences to the Pelicans' young stars and help guide them in the right direction. Signing Westbrook could be a culture-defining move for the franchise, a veteran presence who helps instill accountability and direction.
With Dejounte Murray expected to miss the start of the season due to injury, the Pelicans need a steady lead guard to begin the year. Westbrook proved last season that he has no problem stepping into the spotlight when needed. His pace of play, experience, and leadership make him the ideal short-term solution, and possibly much more for the Pelicans.