Russell Westbrook’s name just won’t stay out of the mix. As NBA free agency drags on, the veteran guard finds himself front and center again. Though he’s still technically tied to the Denver Nuggets, it doesn’t look like he’s going back there. And now, the Sacramento Kings Look Like Westbrook’s Next Landing Spot. But, as with most things in the NBA, it’s not quite that simple.
Kings in the Driver’s Seat, But the Road’s Twisty
Westbrook had his ups and downs last postseason. He helped the Nuggets take down the Clippers in the first round, but things got rocky after that. His inconsistency raised a few eyebrows. Still, the guy’s got fire, his energy, leadership, and passing? Still solid. Not perfect, but useful.
Brett Siegel from ClutchPoints says the Kings have had their eyes on Westbrook for a while. Their GM, Scott Perry, apparently liked him even back when he was part of the Knicks’ front office. Even though Sacramento has already signed Dennis Schroder, they’re still in talks with Westbrook’s representatives. So… clearly, the interest runs deep.
What’s the Hold-Up? Kuminga. Always Kuminga.
Here’s the snag: Jonathan Kuminga. He wants to go to the Kings, the Kings want him, and the Warriors? Not so eager to let him walk. If Sacramento can swing a trade, maybe sending Malik Monk or another guard in exchange, they’d clear the way to bring Kuminga in. That move would also, conveniently, open up space for Westbrook.
No trade? No Kuminga. No Kuminga? Then it’s a whole lot trickier for Westbrook to fit in. The roster’s just too tight right now, and someone like Terence Davis would probably need to be waived. It’s like one of those sliding puzzles; everything has to move just right.
Westbrook’s Player Option Decision Says a Lot
Back in June, Westbrook said “no thanks” to a $3.4 million player option with Denver. That decision didn’t just come out of nowhere. It felt like he either knew something we didn’t, or he was banking on a team offering a better fit or at least better money. Denver, so far, hasn’t stepped up. So now? He’s waiting. Watching. Probably talking behind the scenes.
And Sacramento? They might just be the spot he’s waiting for.
Conclusion
Right now, Russell Westbrook’s future feels like it’s hanging by a thread or maybe a trade. The Sacramento Kings are interested, but their pursuit of Jonathan Kuminga complicates everything. If that domino falls, Westbrook could be packing his bags for California soon. If not? Well, who knows?
Free agency’s clock is still ticking—and so is Westbrook’s.
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