In a surprising move, Russell Westbrook is once again on the move, with the Los Angeles Clippers striking a deal to send him to the Utah Jazz. The trade, reported by ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, is expected to pave the way for Westbrook to eventually join the Denver Nuggets.

Sources indicate that Westbrook is likely to reach a contract buyout with the Jazz in the near future, allowing him to join the Nuggets after clearing waivers. This transaction will mark Westbrook's sixth team in the last seven seasons, showcasing his journey through the NBA.

Last season, Westbrook saw a decrease in his performance, averaging a career-low of 11.1 points, five rebounds, and a career-low of 4.5 assists while primarily coming off the bench for the Clippers. Despite starting as their point guard, Westbrook transitioned to a bench role after the acquisition of James Harden. Additionally, he played fewer minutes per game than ever before in his 16-year NBA career, with an average of 22.5 minutes.

The Denver Nuggets emerged as a favorite destination for Westbrook, as they sought to bolster their backcourt and provide depth for their second unit. Joining forces with three-time league MVP Nikola Jokić, Westbrook will be aiming to fill a much-needed role and contribute to the team's success.

Meanwhile, in exchange for Westbrook, the Clippers have added depth by acquiring Kris Dunn from the Jazz. Dunn, who averaged 5.4 points and 3.8 assists last season, has agreed to a three-year, $17 million deal with the Clippers. The 30-year-old guard was selected fifth overall by the Minnesota Timberwolves in the 2016 NBA Draft.

The Jazz, in addition to receiving Dunn, will also acquire a second-round pick swap and cash in the trade. This move forms part of the Clippers' continued efforts to strengthen their roster following the departure of Paul George, who signed with the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency. The Clippers have also secured Derrick Jones Jr. and Nicolas Batum during the free agency period.

As the Clippers look ahead to the upcoming season, they will have a new home in the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. Their recent playoff exits in the first round have fueled their aspiration to make significant strides and contend for a deeper playoff run.

Russell Westbrook's impending arrival in Denver brings anticipation and excitement, as fans await the dynamic duo of Westbrook and Jokić to make their mark on the court. Time will tell how this trade reshapes the NBA landscape and impacts the Nuggets' pursuit of success in the upcoming season.