The Sacramento Kings are preparing for their matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers, dealing with early injury updates. Guard Russell Westbrook is expected to play in the game.
Westbrook previously missed Sacramento’s game against the Charlotte Hornets after suffering a right quadriceps contusion, which forced the team to rule him out for that matchup. The injury created some uncertainty around his availability moving forward.
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According to Marcus D. Smith, Westbrook was a “full participant” at practice and is “expected to play,” Smith wrote on X.
Guard Westbrook has put together a solid, though inconsistent, season so far, averaging 15.5 points, 5.4 rebounds, and 6.5 assists while shooting 43.1% from the field and 34.3% from three across 61 games. While still capable of impacting the game, his production has gradually declined in recent seasons compared to his earlier All-Star years.
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The veteran guard provides experience and secondary playmaking in the backcourt. If he can return against the Clippers, his presence would help stabilize the Kings’ rotation and take some pressure off primary scorer DeMar DeRozan, who leads much of Sacramento’s offensive production.
Westbrook joined the Kings after spending last season with the Denver Nuggets, continuing a recent stretch where he has moved between teams in search of the right fit. His leadership could also help create more opportunities for teammates such as center Maxime Raynaud and forward Precious Achiuwa as Sacramento continues developing its rotation moving forward.
Sacramento Kings guard Russell Westbrook (18) reacts after a play during the third quarter against the Los Angeles Clippers at Golden 1 Center.
© Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images
Former UCLA Bruin and the fourth overall pick in the 2008 NBA Draft have built one of the most accomplished careers among modern point guards. A member of the NBA 75th Anniversary Team, he earned the 2016–17 NBA MVP award and has been selected to nine All-Star teams and nine All-NBA teams during his career. He is also a two-time scoring champion, two-time All-Star Game MVP, and was named to the NBA All-Rookie Team.
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He began his career with the Oklahoma City Thunder, forming a young star trio alongside Kevin Durant and James Harden that helped establish the franchise as a Western Conference contender. During his time in Oklahoma City, he evolved into one of the league’s most dynamic guards, highlighted by his MVP season and historic statistical production.
Over the past six years, he has played for multiple teams while continuing to serve as a veteran leader. That experience and résumé still provide value as teams look to balance younger talent with proven leadership.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 13, 2026, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.