Kendrick Perkins Reveals Warning That Ended Friendship With Russell Westbrook Amid Free Agency

Kendrick Perkins revealed that his friendship with Russell Westbrook ended after Perkins publicly warned Westbrook, while he was with the Los Angeles Lakers, to "temper it down" or risk playing himself out of the NBA, based on feedback from league general managers. Westbrook, who declined a player option with the Denver Nuggets after the 2024-25 season, has since remained unsigned as the 2025-26 NBA season approaches, a situation Perkins says hurt their personal relationship. Perkins explained that the warning was interpreted poorly by Westbrook and his wife, leading to a fallout where their wives also became involved, effectively ending their friendship. Despite Westbrook's veteran experience and recent statistical contributions, no significant team interest has materialized, with only Sacramento reportedly showing some interest. Perkins suggested that Westbrook's attitude and past behavior, including dissatisfaction with a reduced role during his Lakers tenure, contributed to his current free-agent status. The situation highlights the challenges Westbrook faces in continuing his career in the league, as noted across several interviews and podcasts with Perkins.