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[Saba Sports News] Russell Westbrook could be on his way back to the Southeast Division.
According to Bovada oddsmakers, the Miami Heat are currently the favorites to sign the former MVP guard in free agency, listed at +260 odds to land Westbrook.
The rest of the top five includes the Dallas Mavericks (+325), Sacramento Kings (+500), Golden State Warriors (+750), and Orlando Magic (+750). Westbrook, who previously played in the Southeast Division with the Washington Wizards during the 2020–21 season, is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer after declining his $3.5 million player option with the Denver Nuggets.
Now 36, Westbrook has transitioned into a valuable bench contributor. This past season, he averaged 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game for Denver.
For the Heat, adding a veteran point guard could be a priority. Beyond Tyler Herro, the team lacks depth at the position, especially with Davion Mitchell hitting restricted free agency. While players like Kyle Anderson, Nikola Jović, and Jaime Jaquez Jr. can handle the ball, none are natural point guards.
Miami might appeal to Westbrook, not only for the opportunity but also due to the presence of his former UCLA teammate Kevin Love on the roster. At the very least, the Heat present a more compelling destination than some of the other teams recently linked to him.