Kings Rookie Maxime Raynaud Praises Russell Westbrook's Veteran Leadership

The 37-year-old point guard has made a big impact on the young Kings roster.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 6:38pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game or match, with overlapping planes of vibrant blue, red, and yellow colors representing the dynamic action on the court.Westbrook's veteran leadership and mentorship have been invaluable for the Kings' young core.Inglewood Today

Sacramento Kings rookie center Maxime Raynaud recently opened up about the positive influence veteran guard Russell Westbrook has had on him and the team. Raynaud praised Westbrook's veteran presence, communication, and ability to boost the confidence of the Kings' young core.

Why it matters

The Kings signed Westbrook to a one-year deal before the season, a move that was met with skepticism given the team's aging roster. However, Westbrook has proven to be a valuable veteran leader, helping guide the team's young players like Raynaud and setting a positive tone in the locker room.

The details

Raynaud recalled the day the Kings signed Westbrook, saying it "really changed everything" for him. The rookie big man praised Westbrook's passing ability and the quick connection they developed, especially in the pick-and-roll and in transition. Raynaud said Westbrook has been an "amazing vet" who has constantly communicated with and supported the young players.

  • The Kings signed Westbrook right before the 2025-26 season started.
  • Raynaud made his comments about Westbrook's impact during a recent appearance on the Brian Windhorst and the Hoop Collective podcast.

The players

Maxime Raynaud

A rookie center for the Sacramento Kings.

Russell Westbrook

A 37-year-old veteran guard who signed a one-year deal with the Sacramento Kings before the 2025-26 season.

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What they’re saying

“I mean, it's unreal, to be honest. We were about to play LA for one of our preseason games, I believe. ... But I just walked into the training room. I see Russ standing there ... and it turned out we just had signed him this morning. So it really changed everything for me. I think he had a great history of making his bigs better and making the people around him better. Obviously, he's a top five passer ever.”

— Maxime Raynaud, Kings Rookie

“So we very quickly had a connection, especially in that short roll and also in transition. And he was really that guy that gave me a ton of confidence. You know, like the one thing about Russ is that he's going to keep talking to you. He's an amazing vet.”

— Maxime Raynaud, Kings Rookie

What’s next

The Kings will look to continue developing their young core, including Raynaud, with Westbrook's veteran leadership for the remainder of the 2025-26 season.

The takeaway

Westbrook's signing was initially met with skepticism, but he has proven to be a valuable veteran presence for the Kings, boosting the confidence and development of young players like Raynaud through his communication, leadership, and basketball expertise.