Russell Westbrook says he’s open to re-signing with the Kings

After completing his 18th NBA season, Russell Westbrook made it clear that a return to the Sacramento Kings is something he would welcome—if the opportunity presents itself.

Speaking at his end-of-season press conference, the veteran guard emphasized that while his future is uncertain, his mindset remains the same as in recent years.

“Yeah, I wouldn’t mind coming back,” Westbrook said. “I mean, I’m always—anywhere I’m wanted, I’m there. I want to be able to be helpful, be productive, but also I understand it’s a business.”

That openness to return stands as the central takeaway from a season in which Westbrook became one of the few bright spots for a Kings team that finished just 22-60.

After joining the roster just days before the start of training camp, Westbrook quickly carved out a significant role, ultimately starting 58 of the 64 games he played–all while on a veteran’s minimum contract.

(Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

More on Russell Westbrook

Despite the late arrival, Russell Westbrook delivered a productive campaign, averaging 15.2 points, 5.4 rebounds, 6.7 assists, and 1.3 steals per game, while shooting 42 percent from the field and 34 percent from three-point range.

His impact went beyond the box score, as he recorded six triple-doubles and 16 double-doubles, his highest totals in a season since 2021-22.

Reflecting on the year, Westbrook acknowledged the unusual circumstances surrounding his arrival in Sacramento.

“I didn’t have a job until a couple of days before the season,” he said. “So I had no expectations. I was just blessed and thankful to have an opportunity.”

While the team struggled in the standings, Russell Westbrook found personal satisfaction in both his durability and his leadership. At this stage of his career, he views mentorship as one of his most important contributions.

“I think leadership is probably, for me, one of my best traits that I really enjoy the most,” he explained. “Anytime I’m able to have an opportunity to be able to do that, I look forward to it.”

(Photo by Tyler Kaufman/Getty Images)

That leadership extended to Sacramento’s young core, which Westbrook praised for their development and resilience late in the season. His presence provided stability during a turbulent year, something not lost on teammates and coaches alike.

As he heads into free agency this summer, Russell Westbrook remains grounded in his approach. Rather than chasing specific outcomes, he is focused on fit, opportunity, and continuing to enjoy the game.

“My job is to be ready, be prepared, and be ready to go,” he said.

Whether that next opportunity comes in Sacramento or elsewhere, Russell Westbrook has made one thing clear: he still has plenty left to give—and he wouldn’t mind doing it right where he is in 2026-27.

Be sure to check out all of the Sacramento Kings’ end-of-season press conferences on the Sactown Sports YouTube page.

When is the next Sacramento Kings offseason date of interest?

The Sacramento Kings will now look ahead to the highly anticipated NBA Draft Lottery, which is set for Sunday, May 10th.

Sacramento hasn’t secured the top pick in the NBA Draft since 1989, when it selected center Pervis Ellison with the first overall selection.

Be sure to stay locked in to Sactown Sports 1140 all offseason for NBA Draft Lottery coverage, NBA Draft previews and analysis, NBA Summer League content, and MUCH more!

More Sacramento Kings content from Sactown Sports

• Report: Doug Christie will return as Kings head coach next season
• Christensen: Tanking isn’t in Doug Christie’s DNA
• NBA salary cap expert advises against stretching Zach LaVine’s contract
• Slater: Kings’ ‘tanking’ controversy was just a coaching mistake

Upcoming Sacramento Kings & NBA Offseason Schedule

• Tuesday, April 14th – NBA Play-In Tournament begins
• Saturday, April 18th – NBA Playoffs begin
• Sunday, May 10th – NBA Draft Lottery
• Thursday, June 4th– NBA Finals begin
• Thursday, June 25th – NBA Draft (Round 1)
• Friday, June 26th – NBA Draft (Round 2)
• Tuesday, June 30th – NBA Free Agency negotiation period begins (3 PM PT)
• Thursday, July 9th – NBA Las Vegas Summer League begins
• Monday, July 13th – Free Agency moratorium ends / signings can become official

Thank you for reading sactownsports.com. Follow us on Twitter and Google News, and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Related

Sources: Zach LaVine will not be bought out by SacramentoWho will be Sacramento’s backup center: Raynaud or Cardwell?Why being counted out could help the Sacramento KingsJerry Reynolds on what the Kings should do with Sabonis & LaVineShould the Sacramento Kings have done more this offseason?NBA Insider believes Darius Acuff Jr. can change the Kings’ culture