Sacramento makes an intriguing move for Russell Westbrook amid disastrous start
Things are not going well for 3-7 Sacramento Kings. They are currently on a four-game losing streak. They will face the 7-4 Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday.
As a result, the Kings make a critical adjustment with their veteran star Russell Westbrookaccording to NBA insider Chris Haynes. Will start Westbrook and the bench Dennis Schroder.
Previously, Schroder was in the starting rotation. However, Westbrook has announced better plus/minus numbers than current starters. So far, Westbrook is averaging 14.5 points, 6.2 rebounds and 5.8 assists per game. Meanwhile, Schroder is averaging 11.3 points and 6.0 assists per game.
However, Schroder has endured recent struggles, particularly with inconsistent shooting. He is currently shooting 38.2% from the field, while Westbrook has been productive off the bench.
Westbrook is in the midst of his first full season with the Kings. Back in October, Westbrook agreed to a one-year contract with Sacramento after playing one season with the Denver Nuggets. Notable factors include veteran leadership, defensive prowess and keeping the team together, which the Kings have been looking for.
At 37 years old, he is in his 18th NBA season. A career that saw him play for the Thunder, Rockets, Nuggets, Wizards, Lakers and Clippers.
Can Russell Westbrook turn things around by starting?
Hopefully Westbrook can provide the spark the Kings need to snap out of this losing streak. Some recent performances off the bench show he still has what it takes. Against the Golden State Warriors on November 5, Westbrook had a triple-double of 23 points, 16 rebounds and 10 assists.
In the process, the Kings won 121-116. In that game, Westbrook started and played 35 minutes. A thoroughly effective performance against one of the oldest teams in the league no less.
It’s anecdotal, really, but it’s a sign of how good the Kings can be with Westbrook in the starting rotation.
2025-11-15 00:34:00
