The Sacramento Kings and Russell Westbrook have reportedly been circling potential interest in one another throughout the offseason, but a deal hasn’t materialized yet.
According to league sources, Sacramento is hesitant to move forward until it clears space in its already crowded backcourt rotation.
Second-year guard Devin Carter is considered the most likely candidate to be moved if the Kings do proceed with signing Westbrook. Drafted 13th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft, Carter played in 36 games as a rookie after undergoing left shoulder surgery in July of that year.
In limited minutes – just 11 per game – he averaged 3.8 points and 2.1 rebounds, showing flashes but never carving out a consistent role.
He’s set to make $4.9 million this season, making his contract a manageable piece in potential trade scenarios.
Sacramento currently has one open standard roster spot and sits roughly $5.4 million below the luxury tax threshold, giving them a bit of flexibility.
However, complicating matters is the absence of Keegan Murray, who is expected to miss the first month of the season due to injury.
That situation could push the Kings to prioritize adding frontcourt depth rather than another guard – meaning that if Westbrook is to be brought in, a trade to clear backcourt congestion becomes even more likely.
Westbrook remains one of the highest-profile free agents still on the market, and while mutual interest exists, Sacramento appears intent on creating the right roster balance before making a commitment.
For now, Carter’s future may be the key to unlocking any deal involving the former MVP.
Devin Carter Available As Kings Look To Move A Guard https://t.co/mk9rYFiVaU
— RealGM (@RealGM) October 13, 2025
