Westbrook close to signing with Clippers

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Russell Westbrook was released by the Utah Jazz on Monday and the nine-time All-Star is expected to sign with the Los Angeles Clippers, according to a report.

The 34-year-old point guard came to the Jazz in a trade from the Lakers on Feb. 10. He averaged 15.9 points, 7.4 rebounds and 7.1 assists in 28.7 minutes in a tough streak with the Lakers.

ESPN reported that Westbrook’s agent, Jeff Schwartz of Excel Sports, informed them that he would sign with the Clippers after completing the opt-out of his remaining $47 million owed to him on his contract.

Schwartz did not immediately respond to messages from The Associated Press. The Clippers had no comment.

With the move, Westbrook will reunite with fellow Oklahoma City player Paul George. It also allows Westbrook to stay in Los Angeles, where he is from.

George recently asked Westbrook to sign with the Clippers. The base was voted Most Valuable Player in 2017 with the Thunder.

“I’m a huge supporter and fan of Russ’ work, having one of my best seasons with him. I’ve seen what he can do every day,” George said. improve the team. It’s a great talent. His rebounds, he finds guys, he makes it easy for everyone. I think he will come, he will reconcile, he will realize the way we play and he will adapt.”

Westbrook would join a team that is fourth in the Western Conference at 33-28.

The Lakers traded Westbrook and a 2027 first-round pick to the Jazz in a three-team deal.