The Golden State Warriors are poised to dominate headlines as they gear up for the 2025-26 NBA season, emerging as a formidable force in the Western Conference despite a rollercoaster offseason. With their core of Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and newly acquired Jimmy Butler, the Warriors have made strategic moves to solidify their championship aspirations, and now, a surprising name has entered the conversation: former NBA MVP Russell Westbrook.
The Warriors’ offseason was initially clouded by a prolonged contract dispute with restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga. The young star’s future with the team hung in the balance, delaying Golden State’s ability to bolster their roster. However, the Dubs finally broke through, signing Kuminga to a fresh two-year deal in October, a move that not only secured a key piece of their future but also unleashed a flurry of roster upgrades.
With Kuminga locked in, the Warriors wasted no time addressing their depth. They brought in veteran big man Al Horford, sharpshooter Seth Curry, versatile guard De’Anthony Melton, and defensive stalwart Gary Payton II. These additions have transformed Golden State’s bench into a dynamic unit, perfectly complementing their star-studded core as they chase another Larry O’Brien Trophy.
While the Warriors’ revamped roster has already turned heads, the NBA world is buzzing with speculation about a potential blockbuster addition: Russell Westbrook. According to BetUS, Golden State has emerged as a surprising contender to sign the 36-year-old former MVP, with the fourth-best odds (+300) to land him. The Sacramento Kings lead the pack as favorites (+150), followed closely by the Houston Rockets and Dallas Mavericks (+200), with the New York Knicks (+350) also in the mix.
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Westbrook, who showcased his enduring value last season with the Denver Nuggets, could be the missing piece for Golden State. Averaging 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, 6.1 assists, and 1.4 steals per game while shooting 44.9% from the field and 32.3% from beyond the arc, Westbrook proved he can still make a significant impact, whether as a starter or a spark plug off the bench. His relentless energy, playmaking, and defensive tenacity could provide the Warriors with a reliable backup point guard behind Stephen Curry, addressing a critical area of need.
Westbrook’s fit with the Warriors is tantalizing. His ability to push the pace, create for teammates, and attack the glass would add a new dimension to Golden State’s second unit. Coming off the bench, Westbrook could serve as a dynamic scorer and facilitator, keeping the offense humming when Curry rests. His veteran leadership and championship pedigree would also align perfectly with the Warriors’ win-now mentality.
Moreover, Westbrook’s versatility allows him to adapt to various roles, as demonstrated in Denver, where he thrived in both starting and reserve capacities. For a Warriors team looking to maximize their championship window with an aging core, Westbrook’s intensity and experience could be a game-changer.
Despite the buzz, Golden State has yet to show significant interest in Westbrook this offseason. With their recent signings of Melton, Seth Curry, and Payton II, the Warriors have already bolstered their guard depth, which may reduce the urgency to pursue the former MVP. Melton’s two-way play, Seth Curry’s shooting prowess, and Payton II’s defensive grit provide viable options at the backup point guard spot.
However, if Westbrook remains unsigned as the 2025-26 season progresses, the Warriors could reconsider their stance. A midseason addition of the veteran guard could give Golden State the extra firepower needed to outmaneuver Western Conference heavyweights like the Denver Nuggets, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Phoenix Suns.
With their revamped roster and championship pedigree, the Warriors are undeniably one of the teams to watch in the 2025-26 season. The addition of Kuminga’s new deal, combined with savvy free-agent signings, has positioned Golden State as a legitimate contender. Whether or not they pursue Westbrook, the Dubs have sent a clear message to the NBA: they’re all-in for another title run.
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Golden State to see if they can recapture their championship magic—and whether a former MVP like Westbrook could be the spark to push them over the top. For now, the Warriors remain a team to fear, and the NBA world is watching closely.