Russell Westbrook Trade Rumors: Rockets Star wants to be moved after 1 season | Launderer report

Mark J. Terrill / Associated Press

After spending just one season in Houston, Russell Westbrook is hoping to make it through this offseason, according to Shams Charania of the Athletic and the Stadium.

ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported earlier Wednesday that Westbrook and James Harden shared their “concern about the direction of the franchise” under the leadership of new head coach Stephen Silas and newly promoted general manager Rafael Stone.

Meanwhile, Harden would remain attached to Houston:

“Westbrook has informed team officials that he is concerned about the responsibility and culture of the team and that he wants to return to his former general role in Oklahoma City,” according to Athletic.

The 31-year-old has three more years and $ 132.6 million left on his contract. The Rockets acquired him from Oklahoma City in a market in which they sent Chris Paul, two first-round picks and other draft considerations to the Thunder.

Westbrook was second for the Rockets with 27.2 points per game, up from the 22.9 he averaged with OKC in 2018-19. He also led the team with 7.9 rebounds per game, down from the career high of 11.1 he posted with Oklahoma City last year.

Ahead of this offseason, commercial rumors have flown regarding Westbrook. The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor reported that the Los Angeles Clippers and New York Knicks were interested in him (h / t Dan Feldman of Pro Basketball Talk):

“I’ve had several sources I trust who tell me that the teams think Russell Westbrook could be had, that Westbrook could be had. And I heard the Clippers were interested. I heard the Knicks were interested in Westbrook. And if something does materialize there, who knows? Who knows? But the point is, there’s a belief that a guy like Westbrook might become available. “

The Rockets have “been protective” of Westbrook and Harden in trade talks so far, according to The Athletic.

Rocket owner Tilman Feritta said last month that the team still plans to fight despite the stint of general manager Daryl Morey and head coach Mike D’Antoni this offseason, but it can be difficult to do without Westbrook. However, Houston “fully intends to continue building a title contender around James Harden,” according to The Athletic.