The Sacramento Kings are entering free agency with a clear point guard priority following the departure of De’Aaron Fox in a midseason trade. The franchise, which finished the 2024-25 campaign at 40-42 and missed the playoffs in the Western Conference play-in tournament, is actively evaluating veteran backcourt options to stabilize its rotation.
Russell Westbrook is among the names under consideration. The 35-year-old guard spent last season with the Denver Nuggets, averaging 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds across 75 regular-season games.
Westbrook started the year in a backup role, but he gradually earned more minutes and contributed significantly during the Nuggets' playoff run. However, he declined his player option for the 2025-26 season, making him an unrestricted free agent.
Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook (0).
Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook (0).
Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
The Kings' reported interest in Westbrook signals a potential shift toward veteran leadership at the guard position. According to Sam Amick of The Athletic, Sacramento is weighing options that include Westbrook and Tyus Jones as it prepares for the official start of free agency.
"Fellow free agents Tyus Jones and Russell Westbrook are also known to be options that the Kings are considering," he wrote. "Free agency formally begins at 6 p.m. Eastern on Monday."
Fans of the Los Angeles Lakers, where Westbrook spent two unsuccessful seasons, have been reacting to the former league MVP potential returning to the Pacific Division.
"Nobody wants him," said one Lakers fan.
"Someone pray for the kings," joked another.
"They tryna add more to their [expletive] show," one added.
Other Lakers fans implored the Golden State Warriors to sign him, believing the move would make them worse.
"Nooooo hes supposed to be a golden state warrior," a Lakers fan wrote.
"Golden State Warriors sign him please," echoed another.