Veteran guard Russell Westbrook could soon find his way back into the NBA, with the Sacramento Kings emerging as a potential landing spot.
According to Shams Charania, there is “strong mutual interest” between Westbrook and the Kings as as regular season approaches. The franchise is seeking to bolster its second unit after ranking 29th in both bench points and bench assists last season.
Charania reported that Westbrook’s established relationships across the Kings’ organization could play a key role in the discussions. He previously played with center Domantas Sabonis and guard Dennis Schroder, and he shares Los Angeles ties with DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine — two other key Sacramento players.
The 35-year-old also maintains professional respect for new general manager Scott Perry and assistant GM BJ Armstrong, whom he knows from their time on the agency side. New head coach Doug Christie, a former Kings player, is also reportedly an admirer of Westbrook’s leadership and competitiveness.
Westbrook, a nine-time All-Star and former MVP, remains unsigned after declining his $3.4 million player option in June. He underwent right-hand surgery on May 27 to repair ligament damage and has since recovered.
The veteran guard averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds in 68 games with the Denver Nuggets during the 2024–25 season. Despite a reduced role, his playmaking and intensity continue to draw attention from front offices seeking veteran depth.
While Carmichael Dave of Sactown Sports reported that Westbrook has received an offer from a Chinese team worth nearly four times what the Kings can offer, sources indicate the former MVP remains focused on securing an NBA opportunity. A short-term overseas stint, however, could remain an option to stay active and financially flexible before a potential midseason NBA return.
Westbrook has played 1,237 regular-season games across stints with Oklahoma City, Houston, Washington, the Lakers, Clippers, and Denver, averaging 22.5 points, 7.1 assists, and 6.7 rebounds for his career.
