As the NBA world waits for Russell Westbrook’s next move, an NBA writer linked the Detroit Pistons to the former MVP.
Putting together a handful of potential landing spots for the recent Sacramento Kings guard, Complex’s Matt Burke considers the Pistons a logical fit for the win-now veteran.
Former MVP Russell Westbrook Emerges as Pistons Option
GettySACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 11: Russell Westbrook #18 of the Sacramento Kings reacts after making a three-point shot against the Houston Rockets in the second half at Golden 1 Center on January 11, 2026 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
“Last season, Westbrook did not find a home until October 15, a week before the start of the regular season. It is likely that Westbrook again won’t be signed until the last minute this season,” Burke wrote.
“… With the Pistons firmly in win-now mode, and win-later mode, Westbrook could provide the franchise with a nice stopgap.”
He added that the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Boston Celtics could make sense as well.
Detroit Pistons Guard Depth
Since they cut ties with Jaden Ivey, the Pistons have been searching for a long-term backup ball handler behind Cade Cunningham.
The veteran Daniss Jenkins proved to be quite serviceable last season, even starting in the absence of Cunningham for a stretch. After appearing in 72 games, averaging 9.3 points and 3.9 assists while shooting 37.4% from deep, Jenkins is likely to have a role in 2026-2027.
Detroit also added Ebuka Okorie as its first-round pick in 2026. The 17th pick out of Stanford just wrapped up one season in the NCAA with averages of 23.3 points and 3.6 assists, while knocking down 35.4% of his threes.
Banking on a mid-round rookie to have an immediate role on a contender is a big gamble. Okorie flashed in college, but the NBA is a different ballgame.
Does Russell Westbrook Make Sense For Detroit?
GettyLOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – MARCH 01: Russell Westbrook #18 of the Sacramento Kings controls the ball against the Los Angeles Lakers in the first half at Crypto.com Arena on March 01, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)
Although he’s 37 and hasn’t been an All-Star since 2020, Westbrook would be the most notable star to share the court with Cunningham.
Westbrook has embraced backup roles in recent years, but he’s looked better as a starter in Denver and Sacramento. Last year, Westbrook knocked Dennis Schroder out of the Kings’ starting five after the Pistons allowed him to walk. In 64 games, Westbrook averaged 15.2 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.4 rebounds.
The Pistons spent the summer looking for shooters, though. Westbrook is a playmaker who can score, but he’s a 30.8% shooter from deep.
The former MVP is in a complicated stage of his career. Most contenders would want him in a bench role, but he’s proven he’s still good enough to start. It would have to be a bench role or bust in Detroit. Depending on the way the Pistons see the Jenkins-Okorie combo, the Pistons probably aren’t jumping to make a call to Westbrook at the moment.