Jan 29, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Denver Nuggets guard Russell Westbrook (4) reacts after being called for an offensive foul during the fourth quarter against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images Brad Penner-Imagn Images

New Report On Surprise Team Targeting Russell Westbrook

Originally posted on Denver Nuggets on SI
By Liam Willerup | Last updated Jun 26, 2025 1:05 PM ET

The Denver Nuggets decided to take the small risk of bringing in Russell Westbrook last offseason, signing him to a veteran's minimum with a player option for the 2025-26 season. At that price, it was worth it for Denver to try him out, and he definitely outperformed that contract.

While his series against the Oklahoma City Thunder was lackluster, Westbrook played a solid overall season, averaging 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds while featuring as a starter in 36 games. However, he's since declined his player option, and a new report from The Athletic's Sam Amick reveals a surprise team that could be looking to add the nine-time All-Star.

The Sacramento Kings are considering signing Russell Westbrook in hopes of filling their point guard void, per @sam_amick

“Fellow free agents Tyus Jones and Russell Westbrook are also known to be options that the Kings are considering. Free agency formally begins at 6 p.m.… pic.twitter.com/LDyatdq5II
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) June 26, 2025

After their draft night move to trade up and land Colorado State wing Nique Clifford, the Sacramento Kings are considering targeting Westbrook in free agency, according to Amick. "Fellow free agents Tyus Jones and Russell Westbrook are also known to be options that the Kings are considering," he wrote.

The Kings are a team that has been in numerous trade rumors this offseason so far, many revolving around the team exploring options for veteran forward DeMar DeRozan, who is entering the second year of a three-year, $73.9 million contract. After moving off De'Aaron Fox, it's clear the Kings have a hole at the point guard position.

welcome to the , Nique!

Draft Coverage presented by @Ticketmaster pic.twitter.com/YGEanePQ8U
— Sacramento Kings (@SacramentoKings) June 26, 2025

Westbrook definitely wouldn't be a long-term option for the Kings at point guard, but Sacramento could see a fit for him if he can play off Domantas Sabonis similar to how he did with Nikola Jokic. The Kings could also target point guard options like Tyrese Proctor and Ryan Nembhard with their 42nd pick.

This article first appeared on Denver Nuggets on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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