Russell Westbrook will not opt into his $3.5 million contract option with the Denver Nuggets for the upcoming season. Instead, he is set to enter free agency, as confirmed by a source familiar with the situation who requested anonymity since it was not publicly disclosed by the parties involved.

This doesn’t necessarily mean that Westbrook won’t return to the Nuggets, according to the same source.

Westbrook’s decision was reported initially by NBA reporter Marc Stein, followed by confirmations from ESPN and The Denver Post. This season marked Westbrook’s 17th in the league, where he averaged 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists, helping the team advance to the second round of the playoffs.

He underwent surgery to address multiple ligaments tears in his right hand after the season, which he played through. In his newsletter, Westbrook expressed his gratitude for the support he received throughout the year and emphasized his eagerness to return at full strength.

Westbrook is a nine-time All-Star and a former MVP, recognized as part of the NBA’s 75th anniversary team, with a career average of 21.2 points and eight assists per game.