Among the few unsigned former players for the LA Clippers still left, Russell Westbrook is the most notable. He last played in a second-round exit for the Denver Nuggets, who were eliminated in seven games by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Westbrook averaged 9.9 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.4 assists in 22.9 minutes during that series.
Westbrook’s production at 36 could be why he is not on a contract, yet, for next season, which would be his 18th, as potentially interested contenders may be glancing at his game log versus the Nuggets, and notice he shot 34.8% from the floor and 21.9% from three, with 2.6 turnovers and 3.7 personal fouls.
The level of trust Westbrook had on the Thunder and Houston Rockets, with the majority of the power in the rock, as well as the number of shot attempts he desires, has vanished. Those considering the signing may be hesitating due to worry about the type of performances they will receive from the former MVP.
However, the Sacramento Kings, one Western Conference hopeful-contender, appear to be optimistic about Westbrook in their rotation. This move would also bring him back to the state of California, for the third time in his career(Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers).
But, before paying Westbrook, the Kings’ front office is reportedly looking to get rid of two talents, and picking the wrong one would be a hefty mistake for the future of the franchise.
The Sacramento Kings should avoid trading Devin Carter after his summer league show-out to sign Russell Westbrook at all costs
Matt George, a credible sports anchor from ABC10, mentioned that the Sacramento Kings want Russell Westbrook next to Dennis Schröder, but because they have more guards than needed, Malik Monk or Devin Carter could be shipped.
On the Kings/Russell Westbrook front:
— Matt George (@MattGeorgeSAC) July 28, 2025
Both parties have been talking and have had mutual interest since free agency began. That's been well known.
From what I gather, the Kings are still looking to move a player like Devin Carter or Malik Monk before they can bring Westbrook…
This would lead to a disaster either way, but if the Kings specifically choose to keep Monk and trade Carter, their future would instantly spiral downhill, as he just showed out on the biggest stage for rising stars: the NBA Summer League.
Carter averaged 14.5 points and 1.7 steals across six games, and scored 30 against the Chicago Bulls, with eight rebounds and three steals.
Development is still a need for Carter, yet the potential is evident in broad daylight for the Kings’ front office, and it would not be wise to trade him with the intention of signing Russell Westbrook, who has been on five teams in six seasons.