Overview
- Multiple reports in early August 2026 say the Kings are actively considering a veteran point guard to mentor No. 7 pick Darius Acuff Jr., with Russell Westbrook and Victor Oladipo the leading options.
- Russell Westbrook is a free agent after declining his 2026‑27 option; he started for Sacramento last season and averaged 15.2 points, 6.7 assists and 5.4 rebounds in 64 games.
- Victor Oladipo is pursuing an NBA comeback after spending 2025‑26 in the G League; he would be a lower‑cost, medically contingent option but has not played in the NBA since 2022‑23.
- The Kings have roster spots available but limited payroll room, sitting roughly $1.3 million under the tax line and several million from the first‑apron hard cap; any sign‑and‑trade to acquire a higher‑paid free agent would force a hard cap and require multi‑year guarantees that cut future flexibility.
- Sacramento’s choice between a higher‑cost Westbrook reunion and a cheaper Oladipo signing will shape Acuff’s development this season and determine how much financial room the front office has for bigger targets such as Jonathan Kuminga.