Russell Westbrook nearing ideal landing spot with Western title contender

Russell Westbrook has been traded to the Utah Jazz, with Kris Dunn heading to the Los Angeles Clippers as part of the deal. Utah is expected to buy out the final year of Westbrook's contract. According to ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, Westbrook is ultimately expected to land with the Denver Nuggets once he clears waivers.

On Monday, The Athletic's Shams Charania cited Denver as a potential landing spot for Westbrook .

"The Clippers and Russell Westbrook plan to part ways this offseason, and the franchise continues to discuss trades for the former NBA MVP, team and league sources said," Charania reported . "The Denver Nuggets are a front-runner to sign Westbrook if he becomes a free agent."

The veteran point guard would fill a void on the Nuggets roster and provide reliable insurance for Jamal Murray. He adds elite play-making off the bench and upgrades the team's overall rebounding ability. His speed in transition will also give Nikola Jokic an additional passing outlet when he leaks out in early offensive sets. Denver should also be able to rely on him to be available. This past season, Westbrook suited up for 68 games, averaging 11.1 points, 5.0 rebounds and 4.5 assists while shooting 45.4% from the field.

Westbrook won't help bridge the perimeter scoring gap on Denver's roster following the loss of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. He will, however, bring a different dimension to head coach Mike Malone's team. Westbrook is a former MVP. He is a nine-time All-Star. Players of his caliber don't become available very often.

During his tenure in Los Angeles, Westbrook proved he can impact games off the bench. He has accepted that he is no longer a guaranteed starter on a contending team. If Westbrook can buy into Malone's system and accept a defined role with the second unit, he could end his 16-year wait for a championship ring this coming season.