Russell Westbrook: Denver Nuggets "Didn't Want Me Back"

Merlin sees a clear cut: after Sacramento’s 130-124 loss in Denver, Russell Westbrook said the Nuggets “didn't want me back,” explaining, “They told me not to [exercise my option],” and that he won’t “go anywhere I'm not wanted.” That admission matters — it explains why a veteran who produced solid bench numbers last season left a contending team and sets the emotional tone for the Kings–Nuggets rematch on Nov. 11. Merlin notes the facts: Westbrook remains productive (26 points in this game, solid regular-season numbers and a top-10 Sixth Man finish), while Denver tweaked its roster and is rolling at 4-2. This feels less about talent and more about fit and chemistry — Westbrook’s craft may shine in Sacramento, but the Nuggets moved on.