5 Free agents the Milwaukee Bucks should avoid at all costs
By Tyler Watts
2. Russell Westbrook
Westbrook’s future may hinge on James Harden’s decision in free agency. It appears both players want to stay in Los Angeles and remain on the Clippers. Westbrook played a career-low 22.5 minutes per game last season because he did not fit on the floor next to Harden. They played together on the Thunder, Rockets, and Clippers throughout their careers and have never been a dynamic duo when sharing the floor.
Westbrook has a player option for the 2024-25 season. If he decides to leave, the Bucks should steer clear of the nine-time All-Star. There is no doubting his talent or impact. He was MVP in 2017 and made the NBA’s 75th-anniversary team. The 35-year-old needs the ball in his hands to be at his best, and Milwaukee cannot give him that luxury.
The Bucks’ defense was problematic last season and would be worse with Westbrook and Damian Lillard sharing the backcourt. Even with elite rim protection, there would be plenty of open shots on the perimeter. Milwaukee would be forced to win high-scoring games, which is nearly impossible when defenses tighten in the playoffs.
Russell Westbrook can still put up monster numbers but needs the right fit. His lack of shooting and defense are serious concerns. The 35-year-old likely remains a backup point guard for the rest of his career, and the Bucks should not want it to happen in Milwaukee.