The Sacramento Kings haven't done much of anything during the NBA offseason, leaving fans on both sides of the aisle unhappy. Those who wanted a full-on breakdown and rebuild are disappointed and those who desired a superstar addition to the roster are also bummed out. No one is entirely happy with Sacramento's choices.
Do they have any more options as the upcoming season draws closer? Not really, but they are apparently still interested in acquiring Russell Westbrook, but it seems increasingly unlikely that they will get him.
The Kings want Westbrook because they don't have other choices
The idea of the Kings adding Westbrook has been floating around for weeks now, but it has never developed into more than a rumor and vague idea. With that being said, there is some truth to this rumor, according to Allen Stiles of Sactown Sports. He recently wrote that "the point guard position remains a topic of interest, and the Sacramento Kings’ interest in Russell Westbrook is reportedly still strong."
Westbrook finished last season with an average of 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 6.1 assists for the Denver Nuggets. Impressive numbers, to be sure, and a major reason why the Kings are so keen on adding him. The other, bigger reason is that Westbrook is currently a free agent and could be signed for a veteran's minimum contract, which would save Sacramento a lot of money.
The Kings were looking at getting support for the backcourt this summer, and they are obviously still very intent on making that happen. They recently found a point guard with Dennis Schroder, but that apparently isn't enough, and they would love Westbrook's expertise too. But Westbrook isn't the sort of player who likes to fight for time on the court, so why would he battle for minutes on a team that isn't contending for a championship? As a natural competitor who loves to make plays and get lots of time in games, that doesn't make much sense for him.
It feels as if the Kings are still barking up this tree because they don't know what else to do. On paper, Westbrook makes sense but in a logical sense, it seems like a waste of effort and time.
Now, fans are wondering just how desperate the Kings are. Desperate enough to take a serious run at Westbrook for fear of this offseason being a bust? Or do they have other plans up their sleeves? Over the last few years, multiple teams have put their faith into Westbrook, thinking he could be the missing piece they needed. Will the Kings be the latest to bet a lot on the nine-time All-Star?