Russell Westbrook Joins Sacramento Kings on a One-Year Deal for His 18th NBA Season

Nine-time NBA All-Star Russell Westbrook has signed a one-year deal with the Sacramento Kings for his 18th NBA season. This addition is expected to enhance Sacramento’s backcourt depth, addressing a key weakness from the previous year.
Westbrook’s Background and Recent Performance
At nearly 37 years old, Westbrook spent the 2022-2023 season with the Denver Nuggets. He showcased solid stats, averaging:
- 13.3 points per game
- 6.1 assists per game
- 4.9 rebounds per game
Westbrook shot 44.9% from the field over 75 games. His experience and playmaking abilities are anticipated to make a significant impact on the Kings, who struggled last season.
Kings’ Struggles and Westbrook’s Impact
Last season, Sacramento ranked:
- 28th in bench scoring
- 29th in assists per game
Westbrook’s high-energy style of play aligns with the team’s new emphasis on effort and urgency, a philosophy stressed by the coaching staff.
Historic Milestones on the Horizon
Westbrook holds several notable achievements, including being the NBA’s all-time leader in triple-doubles with 203. He also ranks eighth in assists. As he prepares for the new season, he is just 506 points away from surpassing Oscar Robertson as the highest-scoring point guard in NBA history.
This move marks a new chapter for Westbrook, who will play for his seventh NBA team. His previous teams include the Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Washington Wizards, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, and Denver Nuggets.
Fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how Westbrook’s addition will transform the Kings as they aim for a stronger season ahead.