Russell Westbrook may have an offer in China worth nearly 4x what NBA teams could offer him ...Read more...

What the reports say

According to reporter Carmichael Dave (of Sactown Sports), Westbrook may have an offer from a Chinese team for about half a season that is “damn near quadruple what the Kings could offer him.”
The Sacramento Kings are reportedly the leading NBA team in talks, but due to salary‐cap constraints their offer would likely be at the veteran minimum for a player with 10+ years of experience (around US$3.3 million–$3.5 million).
If the Chinese offer is indeed nearly four times that, it would mean something in the ballpark of US$12–14 million for half a season.
It’s still unconfirmed whether Westbrook would accept such an offer, or what the exact terms (guarantees, duration, opt-outs) would be.

Westbrook’s status: He declined his 2025-26 player option with Denver (worth about US$3.4 million) and is now a free agent.
Kings’ offer: The Kings are constrained by the salary cap. Their best realistic offer is the minimum veteran contract. For a 10+ year veteran with his resume, that’s around US$3.3–3.5 million.
Why China is attractive: An overseas contract can provide more money immediately, often fewer restrictions, plus more control over playing time. Also, half-season contracts with opt-outs can allow a player to return to the NBA midseason if an opportunity arises.

It’s not confirmed: These are reports and rumors, based on sources that may or may not turn out reliable.
Details matter: “Half a season,” “nearly quadruple,” etc., are vague. We don’t know how much is guaranteed, whether there’s an NBA out clause, what the role would be.
Not yet confirmed that this offer will be accepted or is final. There may be negotiations, or other NBA teams still in the mix.

Westbrook could earn in one half-season with a Chinese team almost what he might make in a full season with some NBA offers.
It could shift the calculus for him: instead of fighting for a minimal role and pay in the NBA, going overseas could maximize his earnings while keeping options open.
For NBA teams, this may reduce their leverage, since a lucrative overseas offer gives Westbrook bargaining power.