Russell Westbrook Climbs All-Time Assists List, Surpasses Legends Mark Jackson and Steve Nash

At 37, Russell Westbrook continues to etch his name deeper into NBA history books while navigating a season of ups and downs with the Sacramento Kings, where his veteran presence has provided stability amid team struggles and sparked discussions about a potential return next year.

The nine-time All-Star and 2017 MVP surged into fifth place on the NBA's all-time assists leaderboard during a March 17, 2026, game against the San Antonio Spurs, surpassing legends Mark Jackson and Steve Nash with his 10,336th career assist. The milestone came in a tough 104-132 loss, where Westbrook dished out 10 assists in 25 minutes despite limited scoring. NBA social media celebrated the feat, with posts highlighting his elite status among point guards and countering past criticisms of his play style.

Westbrook's historic climb underscores a resilient campaign for the future Hall of Famer, who signed a one-year veteran's minimum deal with Sacramento last October after declining his player option with the Denver Nuggets. In Denver, he contributed to a playoff run but later revealed the team encouraged him to test free agency, saying they "didn't want me back." The move to the Kings has offered a fresh start, where he's averaged 15.2 points, 5.4 rebounds and 6.7 assists per game across 64 appearances through late March, shooting 42.7% from the field and 33.8% from three.

His per-game numbers reflect a reliable bench spark and occasional starter, with strong March performances including a 12-point, 12-rebound, 10-assist triple-double threat in a win over the Clippers on March 14. Yet consistency has been challenged by injuries. Westbrook missed multiple games in March due to right foot soreness and a quadriceps contusion, sitting out contests against the Utah Jazz on March 15 and Brooklyn Nets on March 22-23 weekend. The Kings ruled him out for the Nets matchup with right foot soreness, opting for a cautious approach as the team battles for draft lottery positioning in a disappointing season near the Western Conference basement.

Recent outings showed mixed results: In a March 20 blowout loss to Philadelphia, Westbrook posted 11 points, eight assists, three rebounds, two blocks and a steal in 27 minutes, but the team fell 118-139. Earlier quiet scoring nights and turnover issues (averaging 3.3 per game) have drawn scrutiny, though his leadership off the court has earned praise. Teammates and coaches value his voice in the locker room, particularly mentoring younger players on a roster eyeing potential high draft picks.

Insider reports suggest Westbrook could re-sign with Sacramento this summer. NBA analyst Brett Siegel noted in late February that the Kings appreciate his production and on-court/off-court impact, calling it the first time in years a team truly values his skills. With limited interest from playoff contenders and Westbrook thriving in a mentorship role, a reunion on another minimum deal—projected around $3.9 million—appears realistic. Discussions on Kings podcasts and media outlets debate the fit, with some arguing his high-usage style might clash with rebuilding plans, while others see benefits in retaining his experience for incoming prospects.

Westbrook's journey reflects perseverance. After stints with six teams post-Oklahoma City, including high-profile runs with the Lakers and Clippers, the California native has embraced a bench role, focusing on facilitating and energy. Off-court challenges, including a fan's threatening message to his wife earlier this season, added personal strain, but he's maintained focus on basketball.

The Kings' season has been tough, with injuries piling up—including long-term absences for Domantas Sabonis and others—leaving Westbrook as a key contributor when healthy. His ability to rack up assists and triple-double threats keeps him relevant, even as the team grapples with losses and lottery implications.

As free agency looms, Westbrook's legacy grows. Climbing the assists list places him among the greatest point guards, with top rankings in points, rebounds and steals for the position. Fans and analysts alike watch whether Sacramento offers stability or if another chapter awaits.

For now, Westbrook remains a driving force, turning heads with historic feats and veteran grit amid a challenging campaign. His next game could see him return from soreness, ready to push the Kings—and his record—further.