Russell Westbrook, the former NBA MVP, recently declined his player option with the Denver Nuggets for the 2025-26 season, making him a free agent. This decision opens the door for interest from other teams, with the Sacramento Kings reportedly emerging as a potential suitor in their search for a point guard. The Kings’ pursuit of Westbrook comes amid their ongoing efforts to solidify the position following significant roster changes.
Kings Need a Reliable Point Guard After De’Aaron Fox Trade
The Kings are actively looking for a point guard due to the mid-season trade of De’Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs. This move left them without a clear successor at the position after seven seasons with Fox as their floor leader. The trade was part of a three-team deal acquiring Zach LaVine, Sidy Cissoko, and multiple draft picks. Meanwhile, injuries to Malik Monk further complicated their backcourt depth, forcing LaVine to assume point guard duties to close out the previous season.
Sacramento hopes that second-year player Devin Carter can eventually fill the role, but his rookie season showed limited advancement. In 36 games, Carter averaged just 3.8 points and 2.1 rebounds, signaling that he is not yet ready to lead the offense full-time. With Domantas Sabonis acting as a versatile playmaker, the Kings may not need a traditional floor general, yet they still seek experienced guard options as an interim solution.
Balancing Youth Development With Veteran Leadership
The Kings’ front office appears willing to add veteran guards who can contribute immediately, regardless of whether they fit the classic point guard mold. Westbrook offers a high-energy, aggressive style that contrasts with more methodical players like Tyus Jones, who is also on Sacramento’s target list. Despite Westbrook’s reputation for inefficiency at times, his ability to create plays and energize teammates remains valuable.
Westbrook’s Recent Performance and Role With the Nuggets
During his season with Denver, Westbrook delivered a solid campaign in a hybrid role, averaging 13.3 points and 6.1 assists per game while rotating between starter and bench contributor. His presence added depth to a roster often stretched thin, demonstrating that even in the twilight of his career, he can still impact games.
Westbrook’s imminent free agency would likely mean a short-term deal, fitting the Kings’ immediate need to stabilize their backcourt. After falling from ninth to tenth seed over two consecutive seasons, Sacramento is in a position desperately seeking veteran influence to remain competitive.
Potential Impact on the Kings’ Future and Team Culture
Though Westbrook is no longer at his peak, his experience, fearless approach, and vocal leadership could be beneficial for a team still shaping its identity. These qualities might serve as a mentor blueprint for Devin Carter, helping the young guard develop into a more complete floor leader. Westbrook’s willingness to lead by example and push his teammates could energize the Kings, even if sustained success remains uncertain.
Furthermore, Westbrook’s engaging, high-octane playing style may inject excitement into Sacramento’s lineup, similar to the spark former King Rajon Rondo provided during his tenure. For now, the Kings seem poised to explore all options as they aim to rebuild around promising talent while remaining competitive in a challenging Western Conference landscape.
“Russell Westbrook had a player option for the 2025-26 season, which he declined, indicating a possible move to free agency.”
—Marc Stein, The Stein Line
“The Sacramento Kings are eyeing Westbrook as one of their point guard targets alongside Tyus Jones.”
—Sam Amick, The Athletic