New development in the Kings' signing of Westbrook: the No. 13 pick is now on the trading block, and Murray's unexpected injury adds uncertainty

On October 13th Beijing time, reporter Stein stated that the Kings and Westbrook spent the entire offseason feeling each other out. Prior to signing Westbrook, the Kings want to create some room in their guard rotation. Devin Carter, the 2024 No. 13 pick, is viewed as the player most likely to be moved from that lineup.

After having left shoulder surgery last July, Carter appeared in 36 games as a rookie. The 1.88-meter point guard averaged 11 minutes per game, scoring 3.8 points and grabbing 2.1 rebounds. Carter's contract still has three years remaining, with a $4.92 million salary for the 2025-26 season, followed by team options of $5.15 million and $7.37 million for the subsequent two seasons.

The Kings currently have one open standard roster spot and are about $5.4 million below the luxury tax threshold. However, starting power forward Keegan Murray will miss the first month of the season. This may force the Kings to fill that open spot with a big man, which could require making a trade to free up space to sign Westbrook.

Previously, Stein reported that sources indicated Westbrook is not considering playing overseas this season. If he were interested, he would naturally receive numerous overseas contract offers (note: Kings reporters have mentioned Westbrook received a lucrative offer from China). Securing the next NBA opportunity has been a priority for Westbrook's camp, even if it means the signing might not happen before the regular season starts.

Reporter Shams also revealed there is a strong mutual willingness between Westbrook and the Kings to cooperate, though the timing of a signing remains uncertain. Former teammate Anthony spoke on a podcast about Westbrook’s unsigned status, expressing sympathy and understanding for Westbrook’s situation.