by The 2025 NBA offseason has been marked by reunions, including Chris Paul‘s return to the Los Angeles Clippers and Damian Lillard‘s return to the Portland Trail Blazers. With seemingly no strong market for free agent Russell Westbrook, should he make his long-awaited return to the Oklahoma City Thunder?
What Would His Role be?
The OKC Thunder are one of the most stacked rosters in the NBA, but backup point guard is one of the few positions in need. Their current backup is rookie Nikola Topic, an extremely raw talent with many questions in his game. Even though Topic is one of OKC’s franchise cornerstones, they may need some veteran help for the time being.
One of OKC’s weaknesses at times was a lack of consistent playmakers. Westbrook would be a much-needed offensive spark off the bench. Having shooters like Isaiah Joe and Aaron Wiggins surrounding him, along with a rookie lob threat, Thomas Sorber, Westbrook would have excellent-fitting pieces around him.
Although Westbrook can provide a valuable role, he will need to play limited minutes. He is still a poor jump shooter and overall one of the least efficient scorers in the league. His role in a 10-15-minute capacity would provide a pivotal offensive role, but anything more than that could lead to forced jumpers and turnovers.
His Best Chance at a Championship
Westbrook is one of the greatest players never to win a championship. Returning to OKC will give him the best chance he has left, along with being the most poetic way. He has done an unforgettable amount for the Thunder franchise: he is the leader in total points, third in rebounds, second in assists, and third in steals.
The Thunder’s chances of repeating as champions are pretty favorable, and with the addition of Westbrook, their chances would likely increase even further.
