LA Clippers front office leader Lawrence Frank praised Russell Westbrook at Summer League in Las Vegas. Even as Frank praised Westbrook, he all but said the veteran guard would be playing elsewhere next season.
“Russ is a tremendous f—ing player. Hall of Fame player. He’s one of one for what he’s accomplished. Last year was a different role than he’s ever played before,” Frank said. “Since the time he’s opted in and with PG leaving as well, we’ve kind of worked with his agent to see where there’s the best fit for Russ.
“But we got great respect for Russ. He did a terrific job while he was here and we’ll continue to work through his agent to see what the best next steps are.”
The Denver Nuggets have interest in bringing in Westbrook. However, it appears the Nuggets would rather do so by signing him after a waiver, as opposed to trading for Westbrook’s $4 million contract. Denver is dealing with tax and apron concerns, and would prefer to add the veteran point guard at nearly half the cap and tax hit on a veteran minimum deal.
“I think we need some help in the backcourt,” Nuggets general manager Calvin Booth told Altitude TV on Tuesday. “We are going to try to continue to identify that and survey the market. We have a roster spot left and I think if we can add a high-level guard, we will be happy with that.”