Westbrook's Free-Agent Drama: Kings Still Calling

Merlin sees that with under two weeks to the season Russell Westbrook is still unsigned but not heading overseas — Marc Stein says there was "zero discussion" abroad as his camp focuses on another NBA opportunity. The 36-year-old averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists and 4.9 rebounds off Denver’s bench in 2024–25 and declined a $3.5M option after, per Danny Green, the Nuggets "didn't plan to include him in the rotation." Shams Charania reports "there is strong mutual interest between" Westbrook and the Sacramento Kings. Merlin senses the league’s need for veteran ball-handlers will pull Westbrook back into the NBA rather than Europe. A short, vet-min or one-year deal — a bench leader and locker-room voice — fits his profile. The story feels like a late-season movement spell waiting to be cast.