Russell Westbrook Going to Sacramento Kings

Russell Westbrook appears to be heading to Sacramento after weeks of talks between his representatives and Kings officials. Former NBA MVP Russell Westbrook is expected to sign with the Sacramento Kings for the 2025-26 season after declining his player option with the Denver Nuggets. The move comes as Sacramento looks to add veteran leadership and energy to a roster that missed the playoffs last season.

The Kings finished 40-42 last season and fell short in the play-in tournament. Adding Russell Westbrook could help solve their point guard depth issues and bring much-needed intensity to their lineup. The former All-Star averaged 13.3 points and 6.1 assists per game with Denver last season while shooting 44.9% from the field.

Sacramento already has Dennis Schroder at point guard but sees value in Russell Westbrook’s experience and playmaking ability. The signing would give the Kings another veteran presence as they try to return to playoff form after their disappointing 2024-25 campaign.

Key Takeaways

• Russell Westbrook is expected to join the Sacramento Kings after declining his Denver Nuggets player option
• The Kings finished 40-42 last season and are looking to add veteran leadership and energy to their roster
• Westbrook would provide point guard depth alongside Dennis Schroder and bring playoff experience to Sacramento’s young core

Russell Westbrook’s Free Agency and Move to Sacramento

Russell Westbrook declined his $3.47 million player option with the Denver Nuggets to enter free agency, with the Sacramento Kings emerging as his expected destination after weeks of negotiations between his agent and the franchise.

Westbrook’s Departure from Denver Nuggets

Russell Westbrook chose to leave Denver after one season by declining his player option for the 2025-26 season. He had signed a two-year, $6.8 million veteran minimum deal with the Nuggets in June 2024.

During his time in Denver, Russell Westbrook averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds per game. He shot 44.9% from the field during the regular season.

His playoff performance was less impressive. Westbrook shot just 39.1% from the field and averaged 11.7 points. He recorded 34 assists against 30 turnovers during the postseason.

Russell Westbrook played through two broken fingers during the playoffs. He underwent right-hand surgery in May 2025 after the season ended.

The former NBA MVP decided he wanted a change of scenery. This marked another stop in his career journey since leaving Oklahoma City in 2019.

Sacramento Kings’ Pursuit and Negotiations

The Sacramento Kings identified Russell Westbrook as a primary free agent target. Negotiations between the two sides lasted for weeks after free agency began.

Local insider Carmichael Dave reported strong interest from both parties. He estimated an 80% chance that Westbrook would join the Kings.

The Kings needed to create roster space for Westbrook. They had already filled their 15-man roster by re-signing Doug McDermott.

Terence Davis holds a non-guaranteed $2.5 million contract with Sacramento. The Kings could release Davis to make room for Russell Westbrook if needed.

Sacramento finished 40-42 last season and earned the ninth seed. They lost in the play-in tournament to the Dallas Mavericks.

The Kings traded De’Aaron Fox to the Spurs and added Dennis Schroder. They were still looking to solidify their point guard rotation.

Role of Westbrook’s Agent in the Deal

Jeff Schwartz serves as Russell Westbrook’s agent. He maintained consistent communication with Kings officials throughout the free agency process.

The ongoing dialogue between Schwartz and Sacramento lasted for weeks. This extended negotiation period showed serious interest from both sides.

League sources confirmed that Schwartz and the Kings remained in regular contact. The agent worked to find the best fit for his client’s next chapter.

Schwartz helped navigate Westbrook’s transition from his Denver experience. The agent played a key role in identifying Sacramento as the right destination.

The communication between Schwartz and Kings officials ultimately led to the expected agreement. His work ensured both parties could reach a mutually beneficial deal.

Impact on Sacramento Kings’ Roster and Lineup

Russell Westbrook’s arrival would create significant changes to Sacramento’s backcourt structure and force important decisions about player roles. The Kings must navigate point guard duties, roster space, and rotations around their core players.

Point Guard Rotation After De’Aaron Fox’s Departure

The Kings traded De’Aaron Fox to the Spurs, leaving a major gap at starting point guard. This move created the primary need for veteran leadership in the backcourt.

Dennis Schröder currently fills the starting role after his sign-and-trade from Detroit. However, the Kings still lack depth at the position.

Russell Westbrook would provide experienced backup support behind Schröder. His 6.1 assists per game last season shows he can still facilitate offense effectively.

The former MVP brings playoff experience that younger players on the roster lack. He played in 82 games for Denver, proving his durability at age 36.

Westbrook’s Potential Fit with Dennis Schröder

Both guards have history playing together from their Oklahoma City days. This existing chemistry could help their on-court partnership develop quickly.

Schröder operates best as a scoring point guard who can create his own shot. Westbrook’s playmaking ability would complement this style well.

The Kings could use both players in certain lineups to increase pace and ball pressure. Westbrook’s rebounding from the guard spot would also help Sacramento’s transition game.

However, both players need the ball to be most effective. Coach Mike Brown would need to manage their minutes carefully to maximize each player’s strengths.

Implications for Malik Monk and the Backcourt

Adding Westbrook would likely reduce Malik Monk’s role in the rotation. Monk currently serves as the primary sixth man and secondary ball handler.

The Kings reportedly couldn’t find a trade partner for Monk to clear cap space. This situation complicates their ability to sign Westbrook without other roster moves.

Potential backcourt rotation:

• Starting: Dennis Schröder
• Backup: Russell Westbrook
• Third guard: Malik Monk

Terence Davis holds a non-guaranteed contract worth $2.5 million. The Kings could release him to create roster space for Westbrook.

Possible Lineup Adjustments Around Domantas Sabonis

Domantas Sabonis remains the team’s offensive hub at center. Westbrook’s arrival could enhance the big man’s effectiveness through better ball movement.

Westbrook showed strong chemistry with Nikola Jokic in Denver’s two-man game. Similar concepts could work well with Sabonis as the passing center.

Keegan Murray might move to a bench role to accommodate the new backcourt structure. This would allow more playing time for the veteran guards.

The Kings could run faster-paced lineups with Westbrook pushing the ball in transition. Sabonis runs the floor well for his size and would benefit from more easy scoring chances.

Sacramento’s starting five could feature Schröder, Westbrook, and three forwards around Sabonis. This lineup would emphasize ball movement and pace over traditional position roles.

Evaluating Russell Westbrook’s Current Performance

Russell Westbrook’s 2024-25 season with Denver showed he can still contribute at 36 years old, though his numbers reflect a player adapting to a reduced role. His playoff struggles and injury concerns raise questions about his ability to help Sacramento compete.

Recent Statistics and On-Court Production

Westbrook averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds during his season with the Denver Nuggets. He shot 44.9% from the field, showing improved efficiency in his role off the bench.

The nine-time All-Star maintained his energy and athleticism. He pushed pace effectively and created opportunities for teammates. His 6.1 assists per game proved he can still facilitate at a high level.

However, the playoffs told a different story. Westbrook’s shooting dropped to just 39.1% from the field. He averaged 11.7 points with 34 assists against 30 turnovers across the postseason.

His turnover rate became problematic when games mattered most. The former NBA MVP struggled with decision-making under playoff pressure. These numbers raise concerns about his ability to perform in crucial moments.

Leadership, Experience, and Veteran Presence

Westbrook brings significant playoff experience to any team. He has appeared in multiple NBA Finals and won the MVP award in 2017. His work ethic remains among the league’s highest.

The veteran guard showed strong chemistry with Denver’s players. He adapted well to playing alongside superstars like Nikola Jokic. His energy and intensity can lift teammates during difficult stretches.

Russell Westbrook’s leadership style focuses on leading by example. He pushes teammates in practice and games. His competitive fire can help younger players develop mental toughness.

His experience in pressure situations could benefit Sacramento’s young core. The Kings need veteran leadership after missing the playoffs last season.

Injury History and Durability Concerns

Westbrook played through two broken fingers on his right hand during the 2025 playoffs. He required surgery in May to address the injury. This showed his toughness but raised durability questions.

At 36 years old, his body has accumulated significant wear from his aggressive playing style. He has dealt with various injuries throughout his career. His explosive athleticism has declined from his prime years.

The former All-Star missed minimal games during the regular season. He has historically been durable despite his physical approach. However, age-related decline appears inevitable.

Teams must consider whether his body can handle a full season and playoff run. His recent finger surgery adds another concern for the Sacramento Kings to evaluate.

Expectations and Outlook for the Kings with Westbrook

Adding Westbrook would create mixed expectations for Sacramento’s upcoming season. The Kings face significant challenges in the competitive Western Conference while managing roster depth issues and veteran leadership needs.

Playoff Hopes and Western Conference Competition

The Kings missed the playoffs last season despite adding talent. Westbrook’s arrival wouldn’t dramatically change their position in the loaded Western Conference.

Sacramento finished outside the Play-In Tournament in 2024-25. The Western Conference remains stacked with teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Denver Nuggets, and other playoff contenders.

Westbrook brings playoff experience and intensity. His leadership could help younger players handle pressure situations better.

The 36-year-old guard averaged solid numbers with Denver last season. He started 36 games and showed he can still contribute at a high level.

Key factors for playoff success:

• Chemistry with Domantas Sabonis
• Efficient shot selection
• Reduced turnovers
• Bench production

Westbrook’s ability to create shots and facilitate offense could boost Sacramento’s inconsistent attack. His cutting ability pairs well with Sabonis’s passing skills.

Potential Challenges and Roster Logjam

Sacramento already signed Dennis Schroder to a large contract. Adding Westbrook creates questions about playing time distribution.

Young guards like Keon Ellis and Devin Carter need development minutes. Westbrook’s presence might limit their opportunities to grow.

The Kings roster trends older with this potential signing. Building for the future becomes harder when veterans take minutes from prospects.

Westbrook’s playing style can clash with teammates. His high usage rate and shot attempts might not fit Sacramento’s offensive system perfectly.

Current guard rotation concerns:

• Dennis Schroder (starter)
• Malik Monk (key reserve)
• Russell Westbrook (potential addition)
• Limited minutes for young players

Ball movement could suffer with multiple ball-dominant guards. The Kings need better offensive flow to compete consistently.

Financial flexibility decreases with another veteran contract. Sacramento’s long-term planning becomes more complicated.

Expert Opinions and Trade Rumor Updates

Brett Siegel from ClutchPoints believes Westbrook could complement the Schroder signing well. The veteran presence might stabilize Sacramento’s inconsistent play.

Local radio host Carmichael Dave rates Westbrook’s chances at 80-20 to join the Kings. Mutual interest exists between both parties according to his sources.

The Kings explored other veteran options including Malcolm Brogdon. Westbrook represents their continued search for point guard depth.

Recent developments:

• Strong mutual interest reported
• Trade discussions before signing
• Competition from other teams minimal

Sacramento wants to make roster moves before finalizing Westbrook. Creating salary cap space remains a priority for the front office.

Reports suggest the Kings lead the race for Westbrook’s services. Few other teams show serious interest in the former MVP at this stage.

The timeline for a decision remains unclear. Sacramento continues evaluating their options while maintaining contact with Westbrook’s representatives.