Russell Westbrook Picks Clippers Over 3 Possible Sixers Opponents

Russell Westbrook had three Eastern Conference teams that could face the Sixers in the playoffs this year looking at him.

The Utah Jazz won’t move forward with Russell Westbrook on their roster. Ahead of the trade deadline, the Jazz landed Westbrook from the Los Angeles Lakers. Considering where the Jazz currently are in terms of competing, it seemed inevitable the 34-year-old Westbrook would land somewhere else on a non-rebuilding roster.

Three Eastern Conference teams were reportedly in the mix for Westbrook, which could’ve shaken up the Philadelphia 76ers’ conference. According to a report from ESPN, Westbrook garnered interest from the Chicago Bulls, Miami Heat, and the Washington Wizards.

Ultimately, Westbrook will remain out West and plans to sign with the Los Angeles Clippers in the coming days.

“Westbrook had discussed deals with the Chicago Bulls, Washington Wizards and Miami Heat in recent days, but the chance to compete for a championship and remain in Los Angeles played a significant part in his decision to choose the Clippers, sources said.”

The Bulls were the early favorites to land Westbrook. As they continue to miss their key guard Lonzo Ball, Chicago could’ve used another useful veteran for their backcourt as they attempt to secure a spot in the Play-In tournament at this point in the year.

The Wizards are in a similar situation. Sitting in the ninth seed at the All-Star break, Washington could find itself in one of the lower seeds. A reunion with Westbrook could’ve helped, as he was key in helping them clinch a playoff spot two seasons ago, but Washington hasn’t reached championship-contender status since the last time Westbrook suited up for them.

Are the Miami Heat much better? The standings don’t say, but their postseason progress in recent years would indicate that Miami would’ve been the ideal landing spot for Westbrook to help him accomplish his plans of snagging a title if he were to re-join the East.

But it seems Westbrook likes his odds out West with the other Los Angeles team. Sitting fourth place in the Western Conference, the Clippers trail the Sacramento Kings, Memphis Grizzlies, and the Denver Nuggets. 

In the East, it’s clear who the true contenders are. Out West, the conference seems more open and primed for a potential sleeper team to take over when the postseason arrives. As the Clippers could use some veteran experience off the bench, acquiring Westbrook seems like a logical option for LA. For the rest of the season, Westbrook will compete with the Clippers, barring any unexpected last-minute changes.

Justin Grasso covers the Philadelphia 76ers for All76ers, a Sports Illustrated channel. You can follow him for live updates on Twitter: @JGrasso_.