Russell Westbrook Responds To ‘Fabricated’ Reports That He Wants Out Of LA

The Los Angeles Clippers were eliminated from the NBA Playoffs on Friday. And now, Russell Westbrook is setting the record straight about his future with the franchise.

Shortly after the Clippers fell 114-101 to the Dallas Mavericks in Game 6, reports surfaced that Westbrook may be looking to leave LA in favor of a team that would allow him to play a more significant role. But according to the nine-time All-Star, you can't believe everything you read.

"I am often the topic of conversation by so many ‘sources’ and sports news outlets," Westbrook wrote on his Instagram Story on Sunday. "I felt inclined to share my actual thoughts and words following this season. Understand that anything you read about what I've said or haven't said has likely been fabricated. 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."

Russell Westbrook, Clippers Fall Short Of Expectations

Westbrook acknowledged Clippers fans' frustration with the early playoff exit and the "pressure to plant stories or point the finger."

"I for one enjoyed my year, and worked hard to bring the energy, and provide a spark for our team with each opportunity I was given," Westbrook wrote. "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."

Russell Westbrook

(Jayne Kamin-Oncea / USA TODAY Sports)

By "certain sacrifices," he's likely referring to the fact that the Clippers traded for James Harden at the start of the season, which forced Westbrook to come off the bench. His availability was further limited when he underwent surgery on a fractured hand in March. He finished the regular season averaging a career-low 22.5 minutes and 11.1 points per game.

"I hoped for a different outcome, but I also enjoyed being in the trenches with my teammates this year, who have all been supportive of me throughout the season," he concluded. "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 has a player option for the 2024-2025 season. According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, Los Angeles wants head coach Ty Lue and free agent stars Paul George and James Harden to return next season alongside Kawhi Leonard. And it sounds like Westbrook wants to be a part of that group, too.