Chicago Bulls miss out on Russell Westbrook as he heads to the Los Angeles Clippers

Former league MVP Russell Westbrook is returning to Los Angeles, but this time, he'll be playing for the Clippers.

The development means the Chicago Bulls will miss out on signing the 34-year-old guard, who was traded from the Los Angeles Lakers to the Utah Jazz before the trade deadline a few weeks ago. However, Westbrook and his agent Jeff Schwartz are now finalizing his buyout from the Jazz that would pave the way for the former to suit up for the Clippers.

After finalizing a contract buyout with the Utah Jazz, nine-time All-Star guard Russell Westbrook plans to sign with the Los Angeles Clippers, his agent Jeff Schwartz of @excelbasketball tells ESPN. pic.twitter.com/OjZ0Mkuz5x
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 20, 2023

Bulls in sore need of a veteran point guard

The Bulls had targeted Westbrook not long after his trade to the Jazz for obvious reasons. Although sophomore guard Ayo Dosunmu has done a solid job of manning the point guard spot in the extended absence of the injured Lonzo Ball, the Bulls were looking to add a veteran presence at the position.

Westbrook, with 14 years of experience, supposedly fit that role.

The Bulls, though, quickly moved on to their next target and nabbed their man in another former Laker, Patrick Beverley. The 10-year pro is also securing his buyout from the Orlando Magic and is expected to sign with the Bulls. Beverley's solid numbers and robust defense should help the Bulls in their playoff push.

Playoff-bound

Westbrook, meanwhile, will be joining Kawhi Leonard and Paul George to make up one of the most talented trios in the league today. It remains to be seen how the former MVP’s move to Los Angeles plays out, but for now, he will be joining a stacked roster.

The Clippers made numerous moves at the trade deadline, acquiring veterans guard Eric Gordon and Mason Plumlee, as well as young gun Bones Hyland, to bolster their roster for the postseason.

The Bulls, on the other hand, will be looking to make a playoff push of their own with new recruit Beverley at the helm. At 26-33, they certainly need all the help they can get.