Los Angeles Clippers guard Russell Westbrook took to social media to dismiss reports suggesting he is unhappy with his role on the team following their first-round exit from the playoffs. Westbrook emphasized that he enjoyed his season with the Clippers and is committed to returning next season.
The Los Angeles Clippers' disappointing playoff run came to an end on Friday after they were eliminated by the Dallas Mavericks in six games. Head coach Tyronn Lue's future with the organization is uncertain, and there have been rumors that Russell Westbrook could be looking to leave in search of a more significant role elsewhere.
Westbrook, who was acquired by the Clippers in a trade with the Washington Wizards last offseason, was largely relegated to a bench role after the team acquired James Harden early in the season. This led to speculation that the 34-year-old point guard was unhappy with his situation in Los Angeles.
However, Westbrook took to Instagram on Sunday to deny these reports, stating that anything suggesting his unhappiness is "fabricated." He said he is often the subject of "fabricated" stories from unnamed "sources" and sports news outlets.
"I've never had any trouble sharing my thoughts or ideas on anything, and I choose to keep my thoughts to myself in most cases," Westbrook wrote.
Westbrook acknowledged the pressure to "point the finger" after the Clippers' early playoff exit but said he wants to share his genuine thoughts with the team's fan base.
"I'd like to share some of my actual thoughts to Clipper nation and all of my fans. It's a difficult time for a lot of people due to certain expectations that have been placed on them. Therefore, it's understandable that there is pressure to plant stories or point the finger for what many would classify as a disappointing end to our season."
Despite the team's struggles, Westbrook said he enjoyed his season with the Clippers and is committed to returning next season. He said he "worked hard to bring the energy and provide a spark for our team" and was willing to make sacrifices for the team's success.
"I felt that I was and remain more than willing to take on new roles and make certain sacrifices in hope that it would make our team better," Westbrook said.
Westbrook said he hoped for a different outcome in the playoffs but enjoyed being part of the team and is eager to return and contribute in whatever way he can.
"I hope to come back better, stronger, and remain eager to take on any role that continues to put us in the best position to win next season!" Westbrook wrote.
Westbrook has a player option for the 2024-2025 season. He played an average of 22.5 minutes per game during the regular season, averaging 11.1 points and 4.5 assists.
