Kings Unlikely To Add Russell Westbrook Without Roster Shakeup

The Sacramento Kings have long admired Russell Westbrook, but admiration alone may not be enough.

Despite continued speculation linking Sacramento to the former MVP, a deal remains unlikely unless the team makes roster changes, according to Sam Amick of The Athletic.

“The sense that I have gotten is that the Kings have a lot of affinity for Russ, without question,” Amick said during his weekly spot on Sactown Sports 1140. “But the backcourt is pretty crowded already, and there was concern about making it even worse. Nothing’s changed roster-wise to alter that logjam.”

As it stands, the Kings have Malik Monk, Devin Carter, and now Dennis Schroder, who was officially introduced this week after signing a three-year, $44.4 million deal. Two years are fully guaranteed.

Schroder, for one, made it clear he’s grateful for the belief Sacramento showed in him.

“It means the world to me,” he told reporters. “I want to give it back, every practice, every game. Just leave it all on the floor.”

General manager Scott Perry echoed that sentiment, saying Schroder checks every box the front office values: “competitive, tough, team oriented, disciplined, accountable and professional.”

Carter Drawing Summer League Interest

Carter’s name popped up in trade rumors earlier this week when Sacramento reportedly floated a package involving the second-year guard for Warriors restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga. No deal is imminent, but the Kings’ willingness to move Carter after just one year has raised some eyebrows around the league.

Carter, 23, is now viewed as a player to watch in Las Vegas. He struggled in the Kings’ Summer League opener, shooting just 2-of-14 in 24 minutes. But the defensive-minded guard is maintaining his focus, leaning on advice from his father, longtime NBA veteran Anthony Carter.

“I just come in to work every day, show up with a ready-to-work mentality,” he said. “It is what it is. It’s a business.”