With NBA free agency fast approaching, one of the biggest names available is point guard Russell Westbrook. The veteran endured a tumultuous 2022-23 season with the Lakers and Clippers, but he averaged 15.9 points, 5.8 rebounds and 7.5 assists per game.
Even at age 34, Westbrook still offers playmaking ability that could help contending teams. On Monday’s episode of ESPN’s First Take, former Celtics star Kendrick Perkins said the fit is clear for one Eastern Conference power.
“I would also love Russell Westbrook on the Miami Heat,” Perkins said.
Perkins believes Westbrook’s playmaking ability can help a team with as many shooting options as the Heat. He also said Westbrook would give Miami an element it didn’t have in the playoffs.
“When you think about Russ’s impact, he’s still one of the best as far as attacking downhill,” Perkins said. “I know we get all up about the dumb and crazy turnovers, but when it comes to playmaking, he’s still one of the best in the game, when it comes to creating for others.”
Currently, the Heat do have a veteran point guard on the roster in Kyle Lowry, who has one year left on his contract. However, Miami doesn’t have a lot of money to work with in free agency, so Perkins suggested Westbrook take a one-year veteran minimum to play for the Heat.
The biggest question that Westbrook would face if he joined Miami would be how he adapts to the Heat’s culture. However, Perkins believes the point guard would be fine in that environment.
“Once you go there, you have no choice but to buy in,” Perkins said. “I think Russell Westbrook is at the stage of his career, he’s old enough where he’d receive it.”
