Kings GM Scott Perry praised Russell Westbrook but said Sacramento can only offer a minimum contract, leaving a reunion uncertain despite the veteran guard’s strong 2025-26 season.
Three months removed from the Sacramento Kings' active roster, Russell Westbrook is currently a free agent. While a few teams are gaining interest in him, a reunion with the city is still very much possible.
Speaking Wednesday before the Kings departed for NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, general manager Scott Perry said he remains a fan of the veteran guard. He also acknowledged Sacramento is limited to offering only a minimum contract, which may no longer be enough after Westbrook's production last season.
"Russ has always been a favorite of mine," he said. "Russell Westbrook probably outplayed a minimum contract, which is all we have right now, so that's really all I have to say about him right now."
Westbrook started 58 of his 64 appearances for Sacramento last season, averaging 15.2 points, 5.4 rebounds and 6.7 assists while playing on a minimum deal. The Kings are looking for backcourt depth behind rookie Darius Acuff Jr., but Perry indicated any pursuit of Westbrook will depend on whether the club can make the finances work.
However, Sacramento's salary situation has shaped much of its offseason. The Kings waived DeMar DeRozan earlier this week, saving $15.7 million of his $25.7 million salary after only $10 million was guaranteed.
Perry said the move was driven by financial realities rather than a desire to part with the veteran.
"I've been in the league 26 years, and he was one of my favorite players to work with," Perry said. "We were trying to figure out ways we could keep him, but as we all know there is a financial component to this job."
The Kings have since re-signed Precious Achiuwa to a two-year, $11.5 million contract, though they remain over the salary cap despite moving below the first apron. Perry praised Achiuwa's decision to stay with the organization after the forward averaged career highs of 10.1 points and 6.7 rebounds in 73 games last season.
Perry also addressed the futures of Zach LaVine and Domantas Sabonis, both of whom have been involved in trade speculation throughout the offseason. He said he has maintained regular communication with both players and expects them to report ready to compete if no suitable trade emerges.
The broader priority, Perry mentioned, remains building the identity he envisioned when he took over as general manager. He wants Sacramento to become the league's hardest-working and hardest-playing team, with toughness, conditioning and defensive effort defining every roster decision.
Join the Community! Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news!
It's completely free to join, simply by clicking the yellow button at the top of the homepage. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members.
