Hapoel Tel Aviv Expected to Offer Russell Westbrook Record European Contract

Russell Westbrook, the nine-time NBA All-Star and 2017 MVP, is at a pivotal point in his career as he holds a $3.4 million player option for the 2025-26 season with the Denver Nuggets. Despite a season of solid contributions averaging 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds per game, his postseason struggles and the Nuggets' decision to overhaul their coaching staff have cast uncertainty on his future with the team. Meanwhile, Israeli club Hapoel Tel Aviv, the reigning EuroCup champions, has reportedly initiated contact with Westbrook and plans to offer him a historic and unprecedented financial contract that could entice him to continue his career overseas. This move would make Westbrook a marquee player in European basketball, a role he no longer holds in the NBA, and could mark a significant shift as he nears the end of his NBA tenure. While Westbrook's departure would leave a notable gap for the Nuggets, the team’s limited salary flexibility might make retaining him challenging if he chooses to decline his player option. The offer from Hapoel Tel Aviv reflects their ambition to attract top talent and follows their recent success in European competitions.