The 2025 NBA offseason is in full swing, with players on break as teams strategize to acquire top free agents. Among these players, Russell Westbrook stands out after deciding to decline his $3.4 million player option on June 13, officially entering free agency. His choice has triggered widespread speculation concerning his next team, with the Sacramento Kings emerging as a leading candidate due to recent interactions with their star DeMar DeRozan.
Westbrook and DeRozan were spotted courtside at the Los Angeles Sparks versus Las Vegas Aces game, where an intense conversation during halftime sparked rumors about a potential partnership in Sacramento. A video clip of their discussion circulated on social media, further fueling the idea that Westbrook could join the Kings soon.
“Russell Westbrook and DeMar DeRozan talking at halftime of Sparks vs Aces. Westbrook’s been linked to the Kings as a primary free agent target. If he signs this offseason, the two would join forces in Sacramento.” —Ben Geffner, Sports Reporter
Sacramento Kings Eyeing Roster Adjustments Ahead of Possible Westbrook Deal
Following a disappointing 2024-25 season that saw the Kings finish ninth in the highly competitive Western Conference with a 40-42 record, the team is motivated to strengthen their lineup. Their playoff hopes were dashed after losing 106-120 to the Dallas Mavericks in the Play-In Tournament, prompting management to consider significant changes during the offseason.
With a focus on improving their guard rotation, Sacramento is reportedly willing to make moves before signing Westbrook. Insider Matt George disclosed that the Kings might trade either Devin Carter or Malik Monk to create financial and roster flexibility needed to accommodate Westbrook’s arrival.
“On the Kings/Russell Westbrook front: Both parties have been talking and have had mutual interest since free agency began. That’s been well known. From what I gather, the Kings are still looking to move a player like Devin Carter or Malik Monk before they can bring Westbrook in. The Kings have a log jam at the guard position and very little financial flexibility to work with.” —Matt George, NBA Insider
Westbrook’s Recent Performance and Potential Impact on Sacramento
During the 2024-25 NBA campaign, Russell Westbrook delivered solid stats, averaging 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds over 75 games with the Denver Nuggets. His playmaking and experience are seen as valuable assets that could complement DeMar DeRozan and enhance the Kings’ backcourt.
The possible addition of Westbrook aligns with Sacramento’s goals to elevate their competitiveness within the Western Conference, where depth and veteran leadership are critical for postseason success. If finalized, the partnership promises to reshape the dynamics of the Kings’ roster moving into the next season.
Future Implications of Westbrook’s Free Agency Decision
As the offseason progresses, the Kings’ rumored interest in Westbrook continues to gain traction. Potential trades to clear cap space illustrate Sacramento’s commitment to signing the veteran guard, signaling a strategic overhaul focused on contention. Fans and analysts alike are closely watching these developments, anticipating how these moves might influence the league’s balance of power for 2025-26.
With talks ongoing and both parties expressing mutual interest early in free agency, Westbrook’s signing remains a defining storyline in this offseason. Whether Sacramento succeeds in assembling a roster capable of deep playoff runs could depend heavily on the outcome of this pursuit.