After weeks of speculation and rumors, all signs are pointing to Russell Westbrook coming to the Sacramento Kings soon.
A new report from Tim McMahon says that Sacramento is still the "most likely destination" for Westbrook. This makes sense because they'd be able to get him on a veteran minimum salary, and he would help them in the backcourt, which has been their biggest goal of the summer.
The acquisition of Westbrook could check a few boxes, but for so many Kings fans, it feels like a predictable and painful move that is, sadly, typical and short-sighted.
The Kings are pursuing Westbrook simply because he's a shiny object
Westbrook is one of several names tied to the Kings. Others, such as Jonathan Kuminga, have been bouncing around Sacramento since the start of the offseason.
But Sacramento's quest for Kuminga seems to have stalled and it's getting nowhere. It's almost as if the Kings are throwing their hands in the air and just choosing to go after Westbrook instead. Kuminga might be the better choice for the Kings, but getting a deal for him is too hard and so the team is looking in a different, more attainable direction.
It's the path of least resistance, and it could end up hurting them in the new season.
It's not that Westbrook wouldn't bring anything to the team. Last season, he averaged 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists on 44.9 percent from the field. At times, he was a surprising and reliable help for the Denver Nuggets but he also faced some serious troubles in the postseason.
Simply put, Westbrook was a mixed bag, which is nothing new.
But he's appealing because of his name recognition and long list of NBA accolades. Nine-time All-Star, three-time assist champion, 2016-17 MVP trophy, and member of the NBA 75th Anniversary Team. He has a historic, iconic career, one that should make him very proud. But his output has been undeniably mixed, especially over the last few years. Yes, the Kings want backcourt support, but would Westbrook provide enough?
His star power is still bright, and many fans feel that is why the Kings are giving Westbrook so much attention. This is exactly what they expect from team owner Vivek Ranadive, who likes to take big swings that aren't always wise. It doesn't matter if Westbrook isn't a good fit, and it doesn't matter that his work has been up-and-down recently. In the eyes of Ranadive, Westbrook is an attention-grabbing All-Star who will bring bright lights and years of experience to Sacramento.
However, the Kings need more than big names right now. Many fans argue that they should be building a future through a roster populated by developing newcomers and proven superstars-in-the-making, such as Kuminga. But that's not how Vivek Ranadive works, and no one will be shocked if Westbrook is the last acquisition of the summer.