Russell Westbrook Eyes New Contract
Russell Westbrook is expected to have a level of interest from the Washington Wizards in free agency. The Sacramento Kings, who have mutual interest with Westbrook, may not be a fit anymore due to the selection of Darius Acuff Jr. in the 2026 NBA draft.
The Kings have interest in adding Jalen Duren in a sign-and-trade deal that would send Domantas Sabonis to the Detroit Pistons. Duren and Kings officials are expected to meet when the free-agent period opens to discuss a potential deal.
Westbrook's potential contract with the Kings is uncertain, given the team's new draft pick. The Wizards, who have Trae Young as their starting point guard, may consider Westbrook as a backup option. Westbrook is familiar with the Wizards organization after playing for them during the 2020-21 season.
The free-agent period opens on Tuesday night, and the Kings are expected to be a central figure in the proceedings. Duren's struggles in the postseason may have impacted his leverage going into free agency. Sabonis, a three-time All-Star, had three consecutive seasons averaging at least 19.0 points, 12.0 rebounds, and 6.0 assists per game from 2022 to '25.
The Pistons have already added shooting help by acquiring Isaiah Joe from the Oklahoma City Thunder. If the Pistons' primary focus this offseason is going to be on upgrading the offense around Cade Cunningham, Sabonis would be a better fit than Duren. The Kings being interested in Duren gives him an opportunity to put some pressure on the Pistons.
Westbrook finished 11th in MVP voting, averaging 22.2 points, 11.7 assists, and 11.5 rebounds per game to help Washington make the playoffs as the No. 8 seed in the 2020-21 season. The Wizards' interest in Westbrook may depend on their plan to compete for a playoff spot next season.
The Sacramento Kings' selection of Darius Acuff Jr. with the No. 7 pick in the 2026 NBA draft may have changed their plans for Westbrook. If the Kings want to hand the keys to their offense over to Acuff, Westbrook may not be a fit anymore because he's still a ball-dominant player when he's on the court.
Duren is coming off an All-Star appearance and All-NBA third-team selection in 2025-26. The Pistons have been at odds with Duren about his value, but there has been an expectation that he will return to Detroit with the team prepared to match any offer sheet he receives if they can't get a deal done on their own.
The Kings' interest in Duren may affect Westbrook's future with the team. Westbrook's contract situation will be closely watched as the free-agent period opens on Tuesday night.