Cason Wallace gives Russell Westbrook his flowers before the NBA Cup game against the Kings

Cason Wallace and insufficient employees Oklahoma City Thunder will try to get back into the win column in the NBA Cup game against Russell Westbrook and the Sacramento Kings on Friday. After a perfect 8-0 start to the 2025-26 regular season, Portland The Trail Blazers handed the Thunder their first loss in the midst of a four-game road trip. Oklahoma City will look for its ninth win without Aaron Wiggins and possibly Lou Dort. which is listed as suspicious.

Against a group of talented guards including veterans DeMar DeRozan, Zach LaVine and Westbrook, a 36-year-old in his first season with the Kings, Wallace highlighted Westbrook’s an outstanding start to the seasonand his legacy, according to Justin Martinez of The Oklahoman.

“He’s playing really hard. That’s what we expect from him,” Wallace said. “We have to respect his game. He’s going to bring a lot of energy, and we have to fill that from the jump.”

Is it surprising to see the kind of season Westbrook is having at this point in his career?

“Not at all,” replied Wallace. “He’s been doing it for years and nothing’s changed. He’s been the same guy since he got in the league. It’s great. I’m happy for him. He’s been in the league a long time and his name is known. He’s going to be remembered forever. So give him a shout.”

Russell Westbrook, who turns 37 this month, is averaging 15.0 points on 46.8 percent shooting, including 43.2 percent from deep, 7.1 rebounds, 5.6 assists and 1.4 steals per game this season. He started four of the Kings’ eight games. Sacramento is 3-5 as it looks to avenge Tuesday’s 107-101 loss to the Thunder at the Pike Center.

Thunder’s Alec Caruso, Lou Dort influences Cason Wallace’s growth

Only in its third season, Cason Wallace emerged as a defensive stalwart for the Thunder, which is no surprise considering he came under the tutelage of All-First Team defensive guards Lou Dort and Alex Caruso.

Wallace, who turned 22 on Friday, reflected on his first three seasons with the Thunder and how he’s grown as a person off the court.

“As a player, more aggressive offensively/defensively, taking more chances, really believing in myself and my abilities,” Wallace said. “Off the field, being a better person – being there for others. Being able to communicate and go outside the box and try new things.”

The Thunder will face the Kings before wrapping up their four-game homestand against the Grizzlies on Sunday.