What Russell Westbrook’s role will be on the Kings, according to Doug Christie – NBC Sports Bay Area and California

Running the second unit isn’t typically the job description for a former NBA MVP, but new Kings point guard Russell Westbrook is ready for the task at hand.

Coach Doug Christie was asked how he sees Westbrook fitting into the Kings rotation.

“I want Russ to be Russ first and foremost,” Christie told reporters Friday. “Behind Dennis [Schröder]making sure we are stable and running the second unit at a high level.”

The 36-year-old veteran came off the bench for much of the 2024-25 NBA season last year with the Denver Nuggets, where he averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists and 4.9 rebounds per game.

Christie will be Westbrook’s 10th NBA head coach. The nine-time All-Star has rebounded quite a bit, but every locker room he’s been in has benefited from his contributions, as he’s often able to defend multiple points on the floor.

“At the same time, Russ fills multiple roles,” Christie continued. “I just want Russ to be Russ. Really, that’s the most important thing. Be all the beautiful things I’ve seen him be all these years.”

Malik Monk also had high praise for his former teammate when he addressed reporters on Thursday.

“I feel like Russ played an undersized 4,” Monk said. “He can guard a 4. I think that’s going to give us a little more versatility offensively and defensively… switching up a little more. He’s been in the league how long? He knows how to play, he knows how to win. And he’s a competitor, so he’s going to help us.”

When Westbrook plays freely, results seem to follow. He has averaged double-digit points in every season thus far during his 17-year NBA career.

The newest member of the Kings is headed to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame; it’s just a matter of time For now, try to provide direction and leadership to the uncertain Kings team.

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