Kings Weigh Bringing Back Veteran Westbrook

Sacramento must decide if aging star still fits with team's young core

Mar. 21, 2026 at 7:57pm

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The Sacramento Kings face a decision on whether to re-sign veteran point guard Russell Westbrook this offseason. Westbrook, 37, had a solid season backing up Dennis Schroder, but his high-usage, turnover-prone style may not be the best fit for the Kings' young core going forward. The team also has the option of drafting a point guard in the upcoming NBA Draft, which could make Westbrook expendable.

Why it matters

Westbrook's veteran presence has been valuable for the Kings' young players, but his playing style may not align with the team's long-term needs. Keeping Westbrook could stunt the development of a potential high draft pick at point guard, creating tension within the organization.

The details

Westbrook averaged 15 points, 7 assists and 5 rebounds this season, while shooting a career-best 42.5% from three-point range. However, he also turned the ball over on 31.6% of his pick-and-roll possessions, the highest rate in the NBA. The Kings also signed Killian Hayes to a two-year deal after his strong play on a 10-day contract, giving them another young point guard option.

  • The Kings signed Westbrook in October 2025 to back up Dennis Schroder.
  • Westbrook will be an unrestricted free agent this offseason.

The players

Russell Westbrook

A 37-year-old veteran point guard who had a solid season for the Kings, but his high-usage, turnover-prone style may not be the best fit going forward.

Killian Hayes

A former 7th overall pick who the Kings signed to a two-year deal after strong play on a 10-day contract, giving them another young point guard option.

Dennis Schroder

The Kings' starting point guard who was signed to a $15 million per year contract, but became expendable after Westbrook proved to be the better option in the starting lineup.

Nique Clifford

A young Kings player who has recently become more relied upon offensively.

Maxime Raynaud

A young Kings player who has recently become more relied upon offensively.

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What they’re saying

“The assumption around the league has been that Westbrook wouldn't be back.”

— Sam Amick, The Athletic reporter

What’s next

The Kings will need to decide whether to re-sign Westbrook or let him walk in free agency, with the possibility of drafting a point guard in the upcoming NBA Draft looming.

The takeaway

The Kings must weigh Westbrook's veteran leadership and experience against the potential development of a young point guard, either through the draft or Killian Hayes, as they determine the team's long-term direction at the position.