NBA Team Bracing for Trade After Russell Westbrook Report

Kings Still in the Hunt for Russell Westbrook, Preparing for Trade

Following the initial reports of Sacramento's interest in Westbrook, Jake Fischer of the Stein Line added more intel on Thursday. Per Fischer, Sacramento has serious interest in bringing in Westbrook to pair with Dennis Schröder to form its backcourt, though a trade may be required before any deal is finalized.

“Sources say that Sacramento continues to covet Westbrook to join Dennis Schröder as a marquee newcomer to Sacramento's backcourt, but a trade of some sort to ease the Kings' backcourt logjam could well be needed first," he wrote.

Fischer added, “There are some around the league who see Devin Carter as the incumbent King more likely to be moved to help facilitate a Westbrook signing rather than Monk."

Should the Kings finalize a move, Westbrook could fill an experience void in the backcourt. Sacramento has lacked a true veteran star guard since De’Aaron Fox’s departure, and adding a proven winner like Westbrook would give them toughness, playmaking, and invaluable postseason experience. His relentless approach could complement their younger core while providing the franchise with an edge as it pushes toward playoff contention.

Russell Westbrook Approaching 18th NBA Season

If a deal pull through, the Kings would become the seventh NBA team of Westbrook’s career, following stints with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, and Nuggets. It will also set him up for an 18th NBA season, making him one of the longest tenured veterans of his generation.

A nine-time All-Star, 2017 MVP, two-time scoring champion, and the NBA’s all-time leader in triple-doubles, Westbrook has defined consistency and durability throughout his career. Despite those accolades, the one achievement that has eluded him remains an NBA championship.

Westbrook has come close, most notably with the Thunder’s 2012 Finals run, but capturing a ring is still the missing piece of his legacy. As free agency continues, the 36-year-old is seeking the right fit, one that will allow him to keep contributing at a high level while also giving him another opportunity to chase the ultimate goal that has fueled him for nearly two decades.