In a surprising move, former Washington Wizards point guard Russell Westbrook has joined forces with the Los Angeles Clippers after successfully passing waivers.
The Clippers, who were in need of a playmaker to complement their star duo of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, wasted no time in snapping up Westbrook after he became available following his buyout from the Wizards.
Westbrook, a nine-time NBA All-Star and the league’s 2016-17 MVP, had an up-and-down season with the Wizards, averaging 22.2 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 11.7 assists per game. However, his individual statistics did not translate into team success as the Wizards finished with a 34-38 record and were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs.
Joining the Clippers gives Westbrook another chance to compete for a championship, something he has yet to accomplish in his career. The Clippers, who were knocked out in the Western Conference Finals last season, will be hoping that Westbrook can provide the spark they need to make a deep playoff run this year.
“I am excited to join the Clippers and can’t wait to get to work with my new teammates,” Westbrook said in a statement.
The addition of Westbrook gives the Clippers a formidable starting lineup that also includes Leonard, George, Marcus Morris, and Ivica Zubac. With their depth and talent, the Clippers will be a force to be reckoned with in the Western Conference this season.
Only time will tell if Westbrook can help the Clippers reach the heights they aspire to, but there is no doubt that his arrival has made them a more dangerous team.