The Sacramento Kings have taken a step forward by re-signing veteran sharpshooter Doug McDermott to a one-year deal, solidifying their 15-man roster with only a two-way slot remaining. Despite this, the team has not closed the door on further adjustments this offseason, keeping flexibility to add free agents or execute trades.
One potential roster move involves guard Terence Davis, whose non-guaranteed contract worth $2.55 million for the 2025-26 season presents the Kings with an option to clear space. This could enable Sacramento to pursue additional players during free agency, such as former <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA MVP Russell Westbrook or other available veterans.
Roster Moves and Veteran Guard Targets
NBA insider Brett Siegel pointed out the Kings’ need to free a roster spot in order to pursue free agents like Ben Simmons or Russell Westbrook, who remain unsigned:
“Sacramento would need to free up a roster spot if they were to pursue Ben Simmons, Russell Westbrook, or someone else still remaining in free agency via a minimum contract. Terence Davis has a non-guaranteed $2.55M contract for the 25-26 season.”
—Brett Siegel, NBA Insider
Besides Westbrook and Simmons, the Kings have expressed interest in veteran guards including Malcolm Brogdon. This search comes in the wake of trading away De’Aaron Fox earlier this year and signing Dennis Schröder through a sign-and-trade arrangement, as Sacramento looks to strengthen its point guard position.
Westbrook’s Desire to Return Closer to Home Aligns with Kings’ Interest
Marc Spears reported that Westbrook prefers to play closer to his roots, an ambition that aligns with Sacramento’s ongoing interest in the veteran guard. Spears remarked:
“One thing I know he wants to do is be closer to home. The Kings are certainly interested in him.”
—Marc Spears, NBA Analyst
This mutual interest has kept Westbrook’s connection with Sacramento alive throughout the offseason, solidifying speculation that the Kings could be a realistic landing spot for the 36-year-old point guard.
Analysis: Why Sacramento Appears as Westbrook’s Best Option
CBS Sports’ Sam Quinn recently highlighted the Kings as the best available destination for Westbrook, citing compatibility and team needs. Quinn explained the limitations Westbrook has faced with other high-profile teams:
“You can probably rule the contender class out here. He just had his best season in years with Denver and the Nuggets still elected not to re-sign him. If you’re not compatible with Nikola Jokić, you probably just aren’t going to meaningfully contend for championships as a role player. He’s 0-for-4 on long-term fits with winners between the Rockets, Lakers, Clippers and Nuggets, so really, we’re just looking for a team with limited ambition and a need for some playmaking.”
—Sam Quinn, CBS Sports
Quinn further emphasized why Sacramento fits Westbrook’s profile:
“The Kings are the only team out there that even sort of fits that bill. He’s been linked to Sacramento all offseason, and even with Dennis Schröder in place, there still isn’t much passing here. …They could use someone to push pace and hopefully generate some easy points, and while Westbrook’s off-ball defense is inconsistent, he can be tough against opposing ball-handlers because of his athleticism and strength.”
—Sam Quinn, CBS Sports
Westbrook’s Recent Performance and Potential Role with the Kings
During his single season with the Denver Nuggets, Westbrook averaged 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, 6.1 assists, and 1.4 steals per game. While past his peak years, the former MVP demonstrated moments of high-level defensive impact and relentless energy that could benefit Sacramento.
As the Kings aim to build a competitive team, Westbrook offers veteran leadership and playmaking ability. However, given the franchise’s current rebuilding phase and lack of immediate championship contention prospects, integrating young talent could also be a priority. Players like Devin Carter and Nique Clifford may receive increased opportunities if the Kings choose a developmental path.
Considerations on Westbrook’s Fit and Future with Sacramento
Russell Westbrook’s acquisition could provide a spark to Sacramento’s backcourt, but neither side may view this as an ideal long-term solution. While Westbrook’s presence would likely generate fan interest and ticket sales, the Kings must balance that with fostering growth opportunities for younger players amid a probable transitional year.
Ultimately, the Kings stand as a logical landing spot for Westbrook due to roster space, mutual interest, and team needs, yet the partnership may be more about filling immediate gaps than a definitive championship push this season.