(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
The Los Angeles Clippers are almost starting from scratch.
Kawhi Leonard will return and stay for the foreseeable future, but not many people trust him to be there and stay healthy when it actually counts.
They paid James Harden a big sum of money, even though he’s no longer the player he used to be.
Still, chances are that he’s going to be not only their primary ball-handler but also their most important player now that Paul George is gone and Leonard will most likely be load-managed.
That’s also because Russell Westbrook will no longer be on the premises.
He was traded to the Utah Jazz and will be waived to allow him to sign with the Denver Nuggets.
With that in mind, the former MVP took to social media to thank Steve Ballmer and the Clippers organization and fan base for the opportunity and for embracing him during this time (via Harrison Wind).
Russell Westbrook thanks the Clippers, Clipper Nation, Steve Ballmer, and his fans: “Looking forward to seeing y’all next season!” pic.twitter.com/2E7dM21AoW
— Harrison Wind (@HarrisonWind) July 22, 2024
Notably, the Clippers and Westbrook helped one another in a crucial time.
He gave them the energy boost and playmaking they needed, and they gave him an opportunity to prove that he would be comfortable taking a lesser role and that he could still contribute to a championship-caliber team.
Unfortunately for them, health got in their way once again, but they proved to be special when they were at full strength.
Now, Westbrook will have a legitimate opportunity to go after the NBA championship he so clearly deserves, all while the Clippers transition to a new era and hope to be competitive.
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