This offseason, two names dominated NBA chatter, Jonathan Kuminga and Russell Westbrook and somehow, their fates seemed oddly intertwined. After a strong year with the Denver Nuggets, Westbrook turned down his $3.4 million player option for the 2025–26 season, betting on himself once again. The veteran guard averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds across 75 games last season, yet, for all his effort, teams stayed hesitant until the final hours. When the Kings officially moved on from Kuminga, it opened the door, and just like that, Russell Westbrook had a new home. Still, his Denver connection lingers.

Just before tip-off, DNVR Nuggets dropped a wholesome clip on X showing Russell Westbrook sharing laughs, hugs, and a quick chat with his former teammates Nikola Jokić and J

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