Nine-time All-Star Russell Westbrook remains unsigned well into August. It's been reported that unless the Sacramento Kings sign Westbrook, he could remain unsigned as the season begins. On a recent episode of the Game Theory podcast, Sam Vecenie and Bryce Simon discussed the possibility of the Minnesota Timberwolves signing Westbrook during the season.
Undoubtedly, signing Westbrook is an intriguing option for the Wolves if things don't go as planned early on in the season.
Westbrook's fit is ideal if Dillingham and/or Conley struggle to start the season
There are multiple pathways where signing Westbrook could end up making sense. The Wolves are planning to give second-year guard Rob Dillingham a bigger role. However, he played just 10.5 minutes per game as a rookie, and it remains to be seen how his slight frame will hold up. If the 20-year-old isn't ready for real minutes, signing Westbrook could be an ideal move. I'm high on Dillingham, but there's no denying this is a possibility.
Another scenario is that the soon-to-be 38-year-old Mike Conley takes another step back. Conley averaged a career low of 8.2 points on 40 percent shooting from the field. In the playoffs, these numbers fell to 6 points on 30.2 percent shooting from the field. If Conley further declines, the Wolves could be in the market for another point guard. Injuries to either Dillingham or Conley could also open up the need for the Wolves to sign a point guard.
Crucially, it's realistic that the Wolves have an open roster spot when the season begins. Currently, they have two open roster spots; it looks like Bones Hyland will end up occupying one of them. Johnny Juzang will compete for one of these roster spots in training camp. However, for some extra financial and roster flexibility, the Wolves could leave one of their roster spots open.
Westbrook is still playing at a high-level
Despite remaining unsigned and being 36 years old, Westbrook is still a productive guard. He averaged 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists with the Denver Nuggets last season. Westbrook provides instant energy, can score in bunches, and generates rim pressure. Additionally, he is still a high-level playmaker. The Wolves could certainly use some extra perimeter scoring and playmaking. Westbrook could very well be the Wolves' best point guard.
It makes sense why the Wolves didn't sign Westbrook in free agency. Seeing what you have in Dillingham, whom you just traded up to get in the 2024 draft, is vital. However, if the Wolves get off to a slow start and their point guard rotation is hurting the team, they may look to sign Westbrook if he is still available. For a team with title hopes, this could be the best move.