Zach Randolph believes Russell Westbrook could still return to the NBA, saying the former MVP has several years left and mentioning the Miami Heat as a possible fit.
Former NBA All-Star Zach Randolph believes Russell Westbrook may not be done with basketball despite announcing his retirement earlier this summer.
Speaking on the Out the Mud Podcast, Randolph said Westbrook retired too early and argued that the veteran guard still has several productive years left in him.
Randolph also named the Miami Heat as a team he would like to see Westbrook join if he decides to return.
Randolph said he recently spoke with Westbrook’s brother, Ray, who apparently suggested that a comeback remains possible.
“This man is supposed to be in the league for another 3-4 years at least. I’d like to see him with the Heat. Brodie got a lot left in him. I just saw his little brother yesterday Ray. He might be back,” Randolph said.
Westbrook reportedly turned down two offers before retiring
Russell Westbrook
Credit IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect – Scanpix
Westbrook surprised the NBA community when he announced his retirement earlier this month at 38 years old.
The former MVP stepped away following one season with the Sacramento Kings, averaging 15.2 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.4 rebounds in 29 minutes per game across 64 appearances.
Westbrook had opportunities to continue his NBA career before deciding to retire.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, Westbrook was not interested in taking on a reduced role behind rookie Darius Acuff Jr. in Sacramento.
The Kings were not the only team interested in him, as the Washington Wizards also reportedly offered Westbrook a contract.
Stein reported that Washington made a two-year offer to bring Westbrook back to the franchise, but the veteran guard ultimately decided not to accept it.
“League sources tell The Stein Line that Washington made a two-year offer to bring Westbrook back to the nation’s capital. Sources say Westbrook — not the team — is the party that ended those talks,” Stein wrote.
“The 37-year-old apparently balked at the specific terms of the offer and/or the role presented and has decided to stop playing instead,” he added.
With Randolph now suggesting that Westbrook could reconsider retirement, the possibility of another NBA return remains a storyline to watch.
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