Despite witnessing a minor resurgence with the Denver Nuggets, Russell Westbrook is reportedly unlikely to return to the franchise next season. Instead, he could be jumping ship for the seventh time in eight years.According to ESPN’s Tim MacMahon, Westbrook is expected to join the Sacramento Kings (valued at $3.7 billion by Forbes) for the 2025–26 campaign.“League sources consider the Sacramento Kings the most likely destination for Westbrook, who will turn 37 during the first month of the season,” MacMahon wrote.Sacramento traded away De’Aaron Fox midway through the 2024–25 season and made finding a new starting point guard a top priority. Early in the offseason, they addressed that need by signing Dennis Schroder to a three-year, $45 million contract.If Westbrook lands in Sacramento, the Kings would be adding both depth at the point guard position and a veteran presence to anchor the second unit.“Westbrook would likely come off the bench again and share ballhandling duties with free agency addition Dennis Schroder,” MacMahon added.Sources indicate that there is mutual interest between Westbrook’s camp and the Kings. However, Sacramento is interested in first completing its trade involving Devin Carter and Malik Monk before moving forward with any potential deal for Westbrook.Russell Westbrook seen embracing DeMar DeRozanRussell Westbrook attended the WNBA matchup between the LA Sparks and the Las Vegas Aces at Crypto.com Arena in July. During a break in the action, he interacted with DeMar DeRozan, with the two sharing a hug and embracing each other.Their courtside conversation fueled speculation on social media, with many fans convinced they were discussing the possibility of becoming teammates with the Sacramento Kings.“💜 reel him in for us DeMar,” one fan said.“Teammates soon,” another fan wrote.“perfect kings player right there,” a user said.“I just want him to sign already like damn,” one fan wrote.“Light the beam fuck it,” another user wrote.Last season, Westbrook thrived in his role as the Denver Nuggets’ sixth man, averaging 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds and 6.1 assists per game during the 2024-2025 campaign.