For anyone hoping that Russell Westbrook's time with the Sacramento Kings would continue are going to be disappointed. Insider Jake Fischer has been saying that the Kings have told Westbrook that he isn't coming back, though no official announcement has been made. Yet.
It is believed that the Sacramento Kings do not want Russell Westbrook back, per @JakeLFischer
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) July 21, 2026
(Via @BleacherReport ) pic.twitter.com/OsqXgY4Sg4
After his semi-forced departure from the Nuggets in the 2025 offseason, Westbrook was left without a team to play for. It was an absurd situation for one of the greatest point guards to ever play the game. Yet, it looked more and more like he was going to be unrostered when the season started.
At the last minute, the Kings signed Westbrook to a veteran minimum contract. He started the 2025-2026 season coming off the bench for Sacramento, backing up then-starting point guard Dennis Schroder. Not surprisingly, that plan turned out to be an absolute train wreck for everyone.
Westbrook stepped in as the starting point guard and did a darn good job. He was productive, efficient, and effective, even in his 18th season. Beyond that, Brodie was a mentor to the growing number of rookies and young guns on the squad. He seemed to have everything the Kings needed.
The Kings seem ready to part ways with Westbrook
At the end of the 2025-2026 season, Westbrook became an unrestricted free agent. His deal with the Kings was only for one season. All of the current rumors seem to indicate that the Kings do not intend to retain his services. It's not surprising, but it's also quite disappointing as he has a lot to contribute.
Yes, Westbrook does not fit into Scott Perry's youth-oriented rebuild. And the Kings have other veteran mentors on their squad who can help develop the ever-growing number of young guns. That being said, it's not hard to see the positive impact Westbrook could have had on this entire process.
It's also worth noting that everything is just rumors at this point. Fischer is usually pretty on the ball with his reports, but no one is perfect. The Kings have two seats to fill on the main roster, and plenty of good options to use them for. Brodie might still be on their radar, though.
Despite the reports, the Kings could wait until the last second to re-sign the former MVP. If they explore their options over the summer, they may reconsider their decision and go with Westbrook. If that doesn't happen, fans might be looking at an NBA without him in it.
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