This is the Sacramento Kings’ projected starting five with Russell Westbrook
In an unexpected deal, the Sacramento Kings are poised to sign Russell Westbrook, a former MVP-winning point guard.
In a move few saw coming, the Sacramento Kings are set to officially sign nine-time All-Star and former MVP Russell Westbrook to a one-year veteran minimum deal on Thursday, just ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season tip-off.
Last season, Sacramento finished ninth in the Western Conference with a 40-42 record, earning a spot in the Play-In Tournament. However, their postseason hopes were short-lived, falling 120-106 to the tenth-seeded Dallas Mavericks (39-43).
Experienced Westbrook boosts Kings backcourt
Looking to add veteran leadership and bolster their backcourt depth, the Kings turned to Westbrook, who had already been linked to the team during preseason due to a lack of backup options behind Dennis Schröder. The franchise was clearly in search of a seasoned floor general who could bring energy, experience and defensive toughness to the rotation.
Westbrook now joins his seventh NBA team - having previously suited up for the Houston Rockets, Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, and most recently, the Denver Nuggets. Entering his 18th season, the 36-year-old guard posted averages of 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.9 rebounds over 75 games last year, including 36 starts with Denver.
Here’s how the Kings’ projected starting lineup shapes up for the upcoming season:
Starting five:
- PG: Russell Westbrook
- SG: Zach LaVine
- SF: DeMar DeRozan
- PF: Keegan Murray
- C: Domantas Sabonis
Rotation players: Dennis Schröder, Keon Ellis, Malik Monk, Nique Clifford, Drew Eubanks, Devin Carter.
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