After the Nuggets were eliminated, where should Westbrook go? Next season, we will find another team that is expected to compete for the championship.

On May 20, in the 2024-2025 NBA playoffs, the Denver Nuggets unfortunately stopped in the Western Conference semi-finals, which made the future of Russell Westbrook, one of the team's core members, the focus. Westbrook, 36, has a $3.47 million player option next season, but according to multiple sources, he is very likely to break out of his contract and seek to join a team with more championship-competitive strength. This former MVP winner has entered the end of his career. How to seize the last chance to win the championship has become a key choice he faces.

### Westbrook's performance and value this season

This season, Westbrook has played an important role in the Nuggets. Although he is no longer the absolute core of the team, he still averages 11.5 points, 5.8 rebounds and 6.2 assists per game, with a shooting percentage of 45.3%. His experience and leadership have helped young players particularly significantly in the playoffs. Westbrook's breakthrough pass and defensive enthusiasm provide stable fire support for the Nuggets' second team. However, as he gets older, his athletic ability has declined, and outside shooting (only 31.7% of his three-point shooting percentage this season) remains a shortcoming. Despite this, Westbrook's passion for the game and locker room influence still make him an ideal puzzle for the championship team.

###Potential Next Home Analysis

1. **Los Angeles Lakers**

The Lakers have always been one of Westbrook's potential destinations. Although the cooperation in the 2021-2022 season is not pleasant, the Lakers' current lineup is aging and a point guard urgently needs to share the organizational pressure on James. If Westbrook is willing to accept a lower tactical status and basic salary contract, it is not impossible to return to the Lakers. In addition, the Lakers management has always maintained respect for Westbrook's professional attitude, and the two sides have a basis for secondary cooperation.

2. **Golden State Warriors**

Warriors need a substitute point guard to fill the vacancy that Chris Paul may leave the team. Westbrook's push and counterattack ability is consistent with the Warriors' "running and bombing" system, and his defensive enthusiasm can also make up for the defensive shortcomings of Curry and others. However, the Warriors have high requirements for point guards to shoot outside, and Westbrook needs to prove that he can perform efficiently within a limited time.

3. **Miami Heat**

The Heat have always been good at exploring the potential of veterans, and Westbrook's tough guy style is highly consistent with the Heat culture. If he can join, he can become the third ball-holding point outside Butler and Adebayo, improving the team's positional combat breakthrough ability. Heat president Pat Riley once publicly praised Westbrook's fighting spirit, which laid the groundwork for the cooperation between the two sides.

4. **Boston Celtics**

Celtics need a backup point guard to enhance the depth of the lineup. Westbrook's organizational ability can alleviate the pressure of holding the ball on the Double Tanhua, and his playoff experience can also help young players grow. However, the Celtics have tight salary space and Westbrook may need to accept a lower offer.

5. **Return to the Thunder to retire**

Emotionally, Westbrook's return to the Oklahoma City Thunder to retire is the best script. The Thunder are currently in a rebuilding period, but with a large number of draft picks and young players, Westbrook can play the role of mentor. Although the chances of winning the championship are low, Thunder management has expressed his willingness to offer a contract at the end of Westbrook's career to recognize his contribution to the team.

### Westbrook's realistic considerations

- **Salary and roles**: Westbrook is likely to be able to get a basic salary contract, but he values ​​the team's competitiveness and tactical adaptability more.

- **Historical Status**: The championship is Westbrook's only missing honor at present, and joining the championship team is the last chance to improve historic ranking.

- **Family Factor**: Westbrook, who settles in Los Angeles, may tend to stay on the West Coast team to reduce frequent away runs. Experts and Player Evaluation

Former NBA player Kendrick Perkins believes: "Westbrook can still provide a championship-winning team with 15 minutes of high-intensity performance, and his rebounding and fast breaking ability is seriously underestimated." ESPN analyst Bobby Marks pointed out: "Westbrook needs to clarify his position - accepting a substitute role and focusing on defense to extend his career."

###Conclusion

Westbrook's next stop choice will be his "last try" in his career. Whether it is returning to the Lakers, joining forces with Curry, or going to Miami, his decision is not only about personal honor, but also about how to end this legendary career in the most decent way. For fans, no matter which team Westbrook wears, his enthusiasm for "running all over the game" will always be one of the most moving scenery in the NBA.