Kings Land Russell Westbrook on Veteran-Minimum Deal

Merlin sees the Kings have signed Russell Westbrook to a one-year, $3.6 million veteran‑minimum deal — a low‑cost answer to a thin second unit. Sacramento wanted "more veteran know‑how behind Dennis Schröder" and Westbrook brings experience, edge and 2024-25 production (13.3 PTS, 6.1 AST, 4.9 REB). As reporters noted, "There is strong mutual interest between Russell Westbrook and the Sacramento Kings," and his ties to Sabonis and Schröder ease the fit. Merlin senses upside and danger in equal measure: Westbrook can inject playmaking and toughness into a bench that ranked near the bottom in points and assists, but his ball‑dominant style and advancing age could clash with the team's primary creators. In the stacked West this is a sensible, short‑term gamble — useful depth that won’t by itself close the gap with top teams. The Oct. 22 opener at Phoenix will speak volumes.