The Atlanta Hawks failed to qualify for the 2025 NBA playoffs. Despite their efforts in the Play-In Tournament, they couldn’t secure a spot in the Eastern Conference standings. Heading into the offseason, they look to add more experienced players to help Trae Young lead the pack.
Atlanta has a secure young core with Dyson Daniels, Zaccharie Risacher and Jalen Johnson. However, they need a veteran who can teach them the ropes of how to be successful in the league. Also, that veteran can help Young’s career.
One of the veterans who could be part of the Hawks is Russell Westbrook.
According to Bovada, the Hawks are among the favorites to land the one-time MVP this summer. Westbrook has a $3.4 million player option that would lead him to stay with the Denver Nuggets. However, he could opt out and play for a different franchise.
Some of the teams that could land the nine-time All-Star are the Brooklyn Nets, the Orlando Magic and his former team, the Los Angeles Clippers.
The Brooklyn Nets are the favorites to win the Russell Westbrook sweepstakes, per @BovadaOfficial
Brooklyn Nets: +600
Atlanta Hawks: +700
Orlando Magic: +700
Utah Jazz: +800
Portland Trail Blazers: +800
LA Clippers: +900
San Antonio Spurs: +1000
Phoenix Suns: +1200
Milwaukee… pic.twitter.com/cC21aOjMos— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) May 19, 2025
Westbrook had a better year with the Nuggets. He appeared in 75 games, averaged 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds and 6.1 assists in a sixth man role.
Although he’s past his prime, Westbrook can still provide a lot for any team. He’s a do-it-all point guard who gives plenty of energy off the bench.
Young and Westbrook’s relationship goes way back before the former was in the NBA. When he was in college at the University of Oklahoma, the Hawks star received advice from the two-time All-Star Game MVP.
Westbrook can serve as a mentor to Young next season, if the Hawks pursue him once he opts out of his player option.
Related: Hawks Linked to Giannis Antetokounmpo With Potential Move
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