Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images

Kings Announce Russell Westbrook News Before Mavericks Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Feb 26, 2026 2:27 PM ET

Sacramento Kings guard Russell Westbrook has been a solid veteran presence in his first year with the organization. Unfortunately for the Kings, it has not translated into much success, as the team owns a 13‑47 record and sits at the bottom of the Western Conference.

The franchise appears headed toward a full rebuild, leaving Westbrook with little meaningful team success to play for. Even so, he has unquestionably outperformed his $3.6 million veteran‑minimum salary.

The 37‑year‑old is averaging 15.3 points, 5.5 rebounds and 6.3 assists while shooting 43.1% from the field and 33.8% from beyond the arc across 56 games. He has remained effective late into his career because his pace, physicality and ability to pressure the rim still create advantages that few guards can consistently generate on the offensive end.

Sacramento Kings guard Russell Westbrook.© Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images

As the Kings prepare for their game on Thursday against the Dallas Mavericks, they are coming off a 31‑point road loss to the Houston Rockets on Wednesday.

Westbrook had one of his more efficient outings of the season in that game, scoring 22 points on 10‑of‑19 shooting while adding five rebounds and three assists. He committed just two turnovers in 25 minutes, giving Sacramento a rare bright spot on an otherwise difficult night.

However, it appears Westbrook will not have the chance to build on that performance. Sacramento announced its injury report for Thursday’s game and immediately ruled him out with a right thigh contusion.

This is the first time he has appeared on the injury report with this issue, and it is unclear when it occurred. His status will continue to be monitored in the coming days.

Keegan Murray (left ankle sprain) and Russell Westbrook (right thigh contusion) are both OUT tonight in Dallas.

Malik Monk (right ankle soreness) is questionable.
— Matt George (@MattGeorgeSAC) February 26, 2026

Even with this latest setback, the remainder of the season is largely a lost one for Westbrook. He has built a decorated legacy across 18 NBA seasons as the league’s all‑time leader in triple‑doubles.

He is also a nine‑time All‑Star, two‑time scoring champion, nine‑time All‑NBA selection and former league MVP. Yet despite suiting up for seven organizations, he has still not captured an NBA title.

He will not win one this year with Sacramento out of contention, and although he has indicated he intends to play again next season, the window to chase that final accomplishment is narrowing.

The Kings and Mavericks meet at 8:30 p.m. ET Thursday in Dallas.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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