Russell Westbrook has been one of the most talked-about figures in NBA salary history, with contracts that reflect both his elite playmaking ability and his high-profile market value. This article breaks down the major earnings milestones, team-by-team details, and what his salary trajectory reveals about his career longevity.
Below is a structured overview of Westbrook's key salary and contract details across his career, followed by deeper insights into specific topics.
| Season | Team | Annual Salary | Contract Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2009–10 | Oklahoma City Thunder | $4.01M | Rookie Scale | Fourth-year scale, team option on his rookie contract |
| 2017–18 | OKC / Houston | $30.82M | Supermax Extension | Signed a 5-year, $205M extension with OKC in 2017, then waived and claimed by Houston |
| 2020–21 | Washington Wizards | $44.31M | Supermax | Largest salary of his career under a 2-year deal in Washington |
| 2021–22 | Los Angeles Lakers | $47.06M | One-year | Signed for the veteran minimum exception after leaving Washington |
| 2022–23 | Los Angeles Lakers | $47.06M | One-year | Player option worth $47.06M, declined and became unrestricted free agent |
Early Contracts and Rookie Earnings with Oklahoma City
2009 Draft and First Extensions
Westbrook entered the league in 2008 and quickly became a cornerstone for the Thunder, which reflected his rapid rise in salary. His early deals were structured around team options that allowed Oklahoma City to balance payroll while retaining their young superstar.
Peak Supermax Years with Houston and Oklahoma City
2017 Supermax Extension and Trade Waiver
In 2017, Westbrook signed a 5-year, $205M supermax extension with the Thunder, locking in a $30.82M salary for the 2017–18 season. After the team waived him midseason, Houston claimed him and honored the contract, making him one of the highest-paid players on the roster despite the midyear move.
Washington Wizards Era and Record Single-Year Pay
2020 Free Agency and Two-Year Deal
Westbrook signed a 2-year, $89M contract with Washington in 2020, heavily back-loaded for flexibility. The 2020–21 season represented his career-high salary at $44.31M, showcasing how veteran supermax dollars flowed to elite playmakers even in a deep market.
L Lakers and Final Playing Years
2021–22 Player Option Decision
Joining the Lakers on a one-year, $47.06M deal in 2021 marked the single highest annual salary of Westbrook's career. The 2022–23 season included a player option that he ultimately declined, ending his time with Los Angeles and highlighting the volatility of veteran pay in a competitive league.
Key Takeaways on Russell Westbrook Salary History
- Started on a rookie scale contract with the Thunder and grew into a supermax player by 2017.
- Earned his highest salary with the Lakers at $47.06M in the 2021–22 season.
- Used a 2-year, back-loaded deal with Washington to maximize future flexibility.
- Declined his Lakers player option to explore free agency and manage his market value.
- His salary trajectory illustrates how elite playmakers command premium dollars across multiple teams.
FAQ
Reader questions
How did Russell Westbrook's salary change after his rookie contract?
After his rookie scale deal, Westbrook's salary increased significantly due to extensions and supermax rules, peaking in 2020–21 with a $44.31M salary from the Washington Wizards.
Which team paid Russell Westbrook the highest annual salary?
The Los Angeles Lakers paid Westbrook the highest annual salary of his career at $47.06M during the 2021–22 season.
Did Russell Westbrook ever take a pay cut for team flexibility?
Yes, when he left the Lakers after the 2021–22 season, Westbrook declined his player option, effectively taking a pay cut to become an unrestricted free agent and explore new opportunities.
What contract structure did Westbrook sign with the Washington Wizards?
Westbrook signed a 2-year, $89M back-loaded contract with Washington, with the higher salary in the second year to provide flexibility for both the player and the team.