On the morning of Sept. 4, Shams Charania of ESPN reported that the Kings agreed to sign former three-time All-Star Ben Simmons to a veteran minimum deal. The Kings announced the signing on the morning of Sept. 8.

Reception to the Kings Signing Simmons

This sounds like great news if you knew nothing about basketball, right? But Ben Simmons’ career has been a… bumpy ride, to say the least. Many Kings fans are making sure people remember that.

Many fans argue that signing an injury-prone 30-year-old isn’t the right move for a rebuilding Kings team. Others argue this is a low-risk, high-reward move. They preach that Simmons could have a career resurgence into the player everyone thought he could be, or at the very least, can become an asset for this team.

Other Options for Sacramento

Recent reports about the Kings suggest they were looking for a veteran guard. A mentor for Kings rookie Darius Acuff Jr. was a prime target in this year’s free agency.

According to a variety of sources, it was down to a couple of players, including Cam Payne, Elfrid Payton, Victor Oladipo, and, obviously, Ben Simmons. 

When you think about it, it is clear who the pick should be. Kings GM Scott Perry nailed it. When you look at some of these other players’ recent stats, they pale in comparison. 

Take Victor Oladipo, for example: his numbers with the Wisconsin Herd in the G League last year aren’t ideal. He averaged 13.5 points per game, yet only shot 38.9 percent from the field and .329 percent from three, in about 30 minutes per game in each of the 15 games he played. That makes it clear he is not in as good a position, basketball-wise, as Simmons. Simmons, who still averaged above 5 in each of the three major categories in his most recent season, remains a valuable asset for teams when he plays efficiently. 

A Clear, Honest Perspective

However, in an article by Jason Jones of The Athletic, Simmons should not be expected to mentor any of the “young” Kings. This suggests Simmons was signed to be more than just a veteran mentor.

Remembering that Simmons can be more than a point guard for Sacramento is key to the signing. Even considering all the gripes one can have about him, he is arguably the most versatile player in the entire NBA. 

A wings-room of Keegan Murray, Deandre Hunter, and Ben Simmons doesn’t look so bad on paper. This is also a low-stakes situation for Simmons in Sacramento. In a place like New York, though, the pressure would be immense. With this being a minimal-pressure situation for Ben, it could secretly be what unlocks him. 

If it all works out in Sacramento, Marc J. Spears has reported that Simmons is interested in staying long-term.

What Simmons Means to Sacramento Right Now

In reality, Sacramento is signing a former Rookie of the Year and All-NBA player. He could easily be the best defender and passer on the team when he walks through those doors. It is a no-lose transaction. 

Should we take a flyer on a young guy or two? Maybe sign a more suitable veteran mentor for Darius Acuff? Yes, of course, these are things Scott Perry should look at. The good news is there is still more than a month of the offseason available to finalize this roster. 

Simmons could be the veteran player who’s perfect for the Kings, and Sacramento might be the perfect place for Ben.

The post The Ben Simmons Signing Has Sacramento Kings Fans Divided appeared first on The Lead.

The Sacramento Kings’ 2026-27 training camp starts in less than a month. Still, the Kings have one open roster spot and plenty of questions about the roster’s state and what this season will look like after a measly 22-60 campaign.

With that in mind, I shared a post online asking fans for their burning questions. I’ll answer one from every respondent in this article. From the long-awaited Ben Simmons signing to organizational goals to asset management, let’s dive in!

What Is the Goal for the Kings This Season?

The Kings’ front office does not believe a roster made up of three former All-Stars and numerous 20+ point-per-game scorers will be last in the Western Conference.

Last year, starters like Domantas Sabonis (63 games missed), Keegan Murray (59), Zach LaVine (43), and De’Andre Hunter (37) missed plenty of time due to injuries. Hunter only played two games as a King.

With a fully healthy squad and added talent like No. 7 overall pick Darius Acuff Jr., the Kings organization firmly believes their roster is capable of a play-in berth, if not a sneaky playoff trip. Under the new NBA Draft Lottery rules, finishing fourth through 10th in the reverse standings comes with better lottery odds. This gives the Kings an extra incentive to win games in all phases of the season.

At the end of the day, it’s impossible to judge how a team will perform before seeing them on the floor together. On paper, the team looks solid, but talent alone doesn’t win games. Winning comes from how individual pieces mesh.

A Potential Bruce Brown Signing?

The Kings had been tied to numerous veteran backup point guards before signing Ben Simmons on Sept. 4. Bruce Brown has gas in the tank, but it wouldn’t make much sense for the front office to add yet another older piece.

As for how his actual play style would fit in Sacramento, his defensive versatility is invaluable to any team. He may be undersized, but he always finds ways to impact games by simply playing gritty, hard-nosed basketball. His ability to attack the basket is impressive, as he doesn’t rely solely on a three-point shot to get on the stat sheet.

As it stands, though, the Kings possess young guards off the bench like Emanuel Sharp and Nique Clifford who would lose minutes to Brown. The organization wants to prioritize development, and Brown isn’t exactly a “win now” move either.

In short, I’d be confused and concerned if the Kings went that route.

The Outlook on Zach LaVine

LaVine is in a contract year, after opting into his $49 million player option in June. Despite being the highest-paid player on the Kings, the front office has made it clear that his starting role isn’t guaranteed. Merit, not status, will determine the lineup. Most expect him to start to begin the year, but nothing is certain afterwards, depending on his performance.

LaVine understands this season is incredibly important for his future. It’s in his best interest to show teams that he can perform well in a role other than the primary scorer. While he’s still a very talented bucket-getter, he’s no longer one of the league’s premier players. He needs to improve as an off-ball player.

As for the Kings’ plan with LaVine, they’ve been trying to trade him for over a year, but to no avail. General Manager Scott Perry has held constructive conversations with LaVine, but the bottom line is his track record as a winning player is thin.

He is a liability defensively, and his offensive outputs can be inconsistent. He’s one of the most efficient scorers in NBA history, but his willingness to be aggressive wavers from game to game.

The Kings are still eyeing a LaVine trade, and talks will certainly ramp up as the trade deadline nears. LaVine’s expiring contract is certainly appealing to teams, especially contenders like the Detroit Pistons, who could use additional scorers. That being said, don’t be surprised if LaVine remains a King until the season comes to a close.

How the DeRozan Stretch Created Room for Simmons

Waiving and stretching contracts is one of the more confusing tools that teams use to save cap space. To set the record straight, DeRozan signed a one-year $3.9 million veteran minimum contract, not $4.9 million.

The Kings still owe DeRozan the full $10 million guaranteed; they don’t split the bill with the Denver Nuggets, who signed him. This clears up why they stretched his guaranteed money over three years. By doing so, they didn’t just dip under the luxury tax, but gained enough room to sign the aforementioned Simmons.

The expectation around the league is that the Kings don’t have the roster to make a playoff push. That’s obviously not the mentality the organization is entering the year with, but it goes without saying that they’d rather not be in the luxury tax in what may be a down year.

The Kings owe DeRozan $3.33 million each of the next three seasons. With LaVine, Hunter, Malik Monk, and Sabonis likely all off the books after the 2027-28 campaign, the small fee shouldn’t affect them.

How to Attack the Rebuild

This is the million-dollar question, isn’t it?

Sacramento is one of the NBA’s smallest markets. It’s not the most popular team in California by any means, nor is it the most popular in the Northern California region. When people think of the “City of Trees,” they see a town that’s two hours away from a good time.

This is why the Kings have consistently been one of the older teams in the NBA. The team is based in an area without much nightlife or overall hubbub. Sabonis is a perfect example. He is perfectly content remaining in the Sacramento region, as he lives in Napa with his family and owns a winery.

High-end young talent rarely sign with Sacramento unless they drastically overpay, and the Perry administration seems to be much more conservative than general managers of the past. That said, there are two instances of Perry making the Kings the number one team in the minds of restricted free agents. Jalen Duren and Jonathan Kuminga remain future targets for the organization simply because of him.

Perry is a man of connections. He’s been in the league for decades and has built relationships with higher-ups in front offices across conferences. He was assistant general manager of the Seattle Supersonics when Presti was general manager. That connection opened the door for the Kings to trade with Presti’s Oklahoma City Thunder for the 24th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft.

Scott Perry’s Asset Management

Perry inherited an impossible situation, both in terms of finances and fit. Monte McNair, the previous general manager, left him with LaVine’s contract, three second-round picks through 2033, and the fourth-oldest roster in the league.

In the beginning of his tenure, he made a couple of questionable moves, including trading Jonas Valančiūnas to the Nuggets for Dario Šarić, who played just one game for the Kings. He also signed Dennis Schröder to a $45 million contract. The two were moved by the trade deadline, and the front office had to attach Keon Ellis and a second-round pick to entice trade partners.

Aside from a few isolated “mistakes,” Perry has made the most of his time in Sacramento. He’s drafted under-the-radar pieces like Maxime Raynaud, the only second-round pick to make an NBA All-Rookie team last season. He’s also signed positive contributors like Precious Achiuwa and Daeqwon Plowden to small deals.

It may feel like Perry has lost the Kings numerous picks, but he’s only given up a few. The Kings possess such negative assets that they can’t accumulate any draft picks, but that isn’t the current front office’s fault.

The Projected Rotations

This reader sent this question before the Simmons signing was announced. I’ll do you one better and give you my predicted 15-man rotation (at the time of this write-up, one roster spot remains open).

Starting Five: Acuff, LaVine, Hunter, Murray, Sabonis

Second Unit: Monk, Sharp, Clifford, Achiuwa, Raynaud

Third Unit: Simmons, Plowden, Alex Karaban, Jonathan Mogbo, Dylan Cardwell

The biggest conundrum the Kings have is at center. Raynaud is an incredible scorer who’s beginning to blossom into a stretch-big. Cardwell is their only center that provides consistent interior defense. While that sounds great, he is also prone to fouling and can struggle finishing around the rim. Raynaud is likely to receive more minutes simply because he isn’t a liability in most facets down the stretch of games.

That being said, Cardwell will still receive minutes. Raynaud has likely separated himself from the second-year undrafted free agent, though. His excellent play for the French National Team likely solidified that fact.

Season Predictions

I’ve answered the LaVine question, so I’ll take one and three. There’s significant distance between the top 8 teams and the Kings, but they can match up with 9-15. The Kings can potentially finish second in the Pacific Division, over Golden State and the Los Angeles Clippers.

The Warriors made few offseason moves; their two main signings were Brandon Williams and Georges Niang. The Clippers have been in the headlines lately due to the NBA’s investigation of them, which uncovered circumvention of the salary cap. The NBA stripped the Clippers of five first-round picks and fined and suspended several top team officials.

That being said, both teams have decent lineups. Stephen Curry alone elevates the Warriors’ floor. Pieces like Brandon Ingram, Darius Garland, and rookie Keaton Wagler will all positively contribute for the Clippers. The Los Angeles Lakers are the clear number one team in that division, led by superstar Luka Dončić.

I don’t think the Kings are going to be the worst team in the Western Conference. On the other hand, I also don’t see them making major waves.

As for how many games I’ll be attending… Only time will tell!

Depth as a Strength?

This is a great question to end with.

The Kings are quietly becoming a very deep team. This reader wrote this response before the Kings signed Simmons, and he can play the point or forward. Not to mention, two-way players like Mogbo add their own skills to the equation.

Injuries derailed last season, but it also gave younger pieces reps against the best of the best. In the wake of Sabonis’s absence, Raynaud started 56 games. That’s in-game experience that training camp and practice can’t provide. A healthy Kings team is quite formidable.

Signing Off

Thanks for reading, and to Kings fans for asking such thought-provoking questions. Kings supporters, you may worry that your team won’t win many games this year. On the contrary, you may expect great things. One thing’s for sure: this roster is a fun one.

Until next time!

The post Kings Mailbag — Answering Fans’ Questions Before 2026-27 appeared first on The Lead.

For several weeks, the Kings and veteran guard Victor Oladipo have had mutual interest. On Wednesday night, Jake Fischer of The Stein Line revealed that the Kings privately worked out Cameron Payne and are looking into Elfrid Payton.

Oladipo, Payne, and Payton are three experienced guards who can provide mentorship to the Kings’ potential future superstar, Darius Acuff Jr. What would each of their fits look like in Sacramento, though?

Before looking into the specific roles they’ll play on the floor, it’s important to understand the bigger picture. Malik Monk is likely going to settle in as the point guard and commander of the second unit. The three guards the Kings are watching would spearhead the third unit. They won’t play many minutes, but their league experience is what entices the organization.

How Did We Get Here?

On June 23, the Kings selected Acuff with the seventh pick in the 2026 NBA Draft. The Kings refused to trade up, despite teams above them trying to coax them into a move. The front office was interested in Acuff for much of the draft process and didn’t believe teams like the Los Angeles Clippers and Brooklyn Nets, who stood at picks five and six respectively, were even considering selecting Acuff.

As the offseason progressed, it became clear that the Kings were in the market for a veteran point guard to guide Acuff. Last October, the Kings signed veteran point guard Russell Westbrook to a minimum contract. He averaged 15.2 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.4 rebounds per game. He believed he outperformed that contract and deserved a standard deal.

The Kings were still interested in bringing him back to mentor Acuff, but Westbrook eventually retired in August. He wanted a role where he could compete for a championship, or at least play significant minutes. The Kings’ current situation would have given him neither option.

Westbrook would have been an intriguing player to bring back. He is one of Acuff’s heroes, and as one of the fastest players with the ball in his hands, he could have helped the rookie adjust to the speed of the game and learn how to facilitate at a high speed. With his retirement, the Kings must now look for options that won’t hurt their chances of winning.

Oladipo Provides a Spark

On April 22, 2023, in a game against the Milwaukee Bucks, Victor Oladipo suffered a torn patellar tendon in his left knee. That was the last game he played in the NBA. He’s since battled back to a potential return after spending time playing overseas in Shanghai and in the G League.

In the 2017-18 season, his best statistically, Oladipo won the Most Improved Player award and received All-NBA Third Team and All-Defensive First Team honors. Acuff has drawn criticism for his defense, with analysts pointing to a lack of effort. Oladipo can help the rookie adjust to the NBA level of physicality.

One of the most valuable aspects of signing Oladipo is the advice he can share on overcoming obstacles. The Orlando Magic selected Oladipo second overall in the 2013 NBA Draft. He had high expectations coming into his first year like Acuff, but underperformed.

Fans and journalists alike wrote Oladipo off before he made strides as an Indiana Pacer. He took prime LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers to Game 7 of the 2018 Eastern Conference First Round. Then, he suffered a ruptured quadriceps tendon in 2019, which kept him out for the rest of the season. He was never the same player.

Despite constant rehab, Oladipo hasn’t lost hope. For many players, multiple career-altering injuries would warrant an early retirement, but the former All-Star remains determined to return to the NBA. It takes pure willpower to remain fighting despite being battered and bruised.

How he performs in NBA games will all depend on his bounce and health. Leg injuries are difficult to come back from, and players often lose the speed and verticality they once possessed before going down.

The Kings flew him to Sacramento for a private workout after the Las Vegas Summer League. The organization’s continued interest likely means he still has gas in the tank. When it comes down to it, the advice he can give regarding how to recover from injuries or stay motivated to compete is invaluable to a rookie.

Payne Is Steady and Reliable

Unlike Oladipo, Payne played in the NBA last season, appearing in 22 games for the Philadelphia 76ers. He’s a capable shooter with a high basketball IQ and quick hands to disrupt passing lanes. While his efficiency has dipped in recent years, he can carve out a role in Sacramento.

In college, Acuff was highly efficient from the field, but he shot poorly in the Summer League, going just 35% from the field and 27.8% from three-point range. Payne is known for being in the right place at the right time when a shot is needed, and he can drain buckets at a solid rate. Taking and finding smart shots are two skills that Payne can supply the rookie.

Aside from overall guidance he can share, Payne remains a quality point guard that can hold down the fort when Acuff needs a breather. While Monk seems like the main candidate for backup point guard, Payne can slot in and perform when necessary.

If the Kings need spacing, Payne can operate off-ball, but he’s comfortable taking the ball up the floor and creating opportunities for others, a skill that he shares with Acuff. The pace of the NBA can be tricky to adjust to, but he handles the ball coolly and calmly.

Payne stays alert and attentive on the defensive end. Despite his smaller frame, he averaged 1.1 steals per game last season, despite only suiting up for an average of 17.0 minutes. Acuff must not get comfortable in coverage; he must stay active and constantly move with his assignment. Payne is a master of overcoming tough assignments.

The Kings hosted him for a private workout on August 20, according to Fischer. He was the first of a string of veteran guards the Kings plan to work out.

Payton Provides Facilitating Chops

Payton has not played an NBA minute since the end of the 2024-25 season for the New Orleans Pelicans. When he did play that year, he made his minutes count. Over his final ten games, he recorded 10+ assists seven times.

Payton plays with pace, rather than pure speed. Acuff is one of the fastest players in the NBA with the ball in his hands, but sprinting isn’t everything. Knowing when to put your head down and attack the basket, versus playing with patience, is key for young players.

Payton’s style of play is not flashy by any means, but he finds teammates with simple, high-value passes. He bends the defense enough that most of his passes become easy. Any player’s goal should be to make their job easier, especially rookies.

Another part of Payton’s game that stands out is his rebounding ability. He’s averaged 4 rebounds per game in his career despite his small size. He and Acuff possess a similar frame, short in stature, but lengthy enough to make up for their height. Payton can show Acuff how to use leverage when boxing out NBA-level talent.

Who’s the Best Fit?

Each of the three guards the Kings are publicly looking into has something to offer. At the very least, they can share advice they’ve picked up throughout their careers with Acuff. At the end of the day, the veterans will play few meaningful minutes.

If you’re looking into their on-court fits in Sacramento, it’s a matter of preference. Payton constantly looks for ways to generate open looks for his teammates. Oladipo is the most athletic and the biggest of the three, which allows him to make a consistent difference on both ends of the floor. Payne is a player that fans know is NBA-ready, given he suited up numerous times last season.

Payne is a low-risk choice, whereas Payton and Oladipo have not played for two and four seasons, respectively. Do you believe the Kings need to take a chance or add a piece that can definitively make a major impact?

The post How Do Oladipo, Payne and Payton Fit With Kings’ Roster? appeared first on The Lead.

Last week, the NBA revealed the full schedules for every team. After previously sharing specific game days, such as Christmas and Emirates NBA Cup matchups, fans of every team can now mark their calendars for key showdowns.

Now that the cat’s out of the bag regarding their showdowns, what stands out about the Sacramento Kings’ 2026-2027 schedule?

National Television No-Show for Sacramento Kings

The Kings will only be featured on national television twice this season. Once on NBA TV on January 12, 2027 versus the Golden State Warriors, and the other on the Peacock Network on January 25 versus the Denver Nuggets; neither game is at home. Sacramento ties the New Orleans Pelicans, Brooklyn Nets, and Memphis Grizzlies for the fewest national television appearances.

The Kings finished last season with a 22-60 record and have retained much of the same core. Following injury-plagued campaigns, Domantas Sabonis, Zach LaVine, Keegan Murray, and De’Andre Hunter are all healthy and should raise the team’s floor. The front office also drafted Darius Acuff Jr., Alex Karaban, and Emanuel Sharp.

Their roster features numerous former All-Stars, yet they’re still viewed as one of the NBA’s worst teams. The keyword there is “former.” Sabonis and LaVine haven’t played up to standard for some time, but they may be incentivized to play at their highest level.

This season is LaVine’s last under contract, and if he wants to wind up on a contender, he has to prove he can be a positive contributor. Sacramento’s front office has shopped Sabonis for over a year, and if he seeks a change of scenery via a trade, he needs to level up his game.

Developing young prospects like Acuff may earn the Kings more national television appearances. As it stands, though, both Las Vegas and Cable TV don’t envision a box-office season for Sacramento.

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Marquee Home Matchups

This past offseason saw blockbuster trades and free agent signings, with many legends switching teams. Mark your calendars, because every superstar, from LeBron James to Giannis Antetokounmpo, will wind up playing in Golden One Center at some point, pending injuries, of course.

Ever since the Kings traded De’Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs, fans eagerly await the games in which he returns to his first team. The Spurs’ NBA Finals trip led by Victor Wembanyama adds to the excitement surrounding the matchup. The two teams face off on Nov. 6 as a part of the NBA Cup.

On Nov. 8, Giannis will play his first game versus the Kings as a member of the revamped Miami Heat. The Giannis trade sent shockwaves around the league and led to a roster overhaul in Miami. Tyler Herro, Kel’el Ware, and Kasparas Jakučionis were shipped to Milwaukee. In return, the Heat acquired the two-time MVP and Bobby Portis.

On Dec. 29, LeBron plays his first game against the Kings as a Philadelphia 76er. Tickets start at over $100 on most ticket-selling sites. Fans will be lining up out the door to see James in action, one of the greatest players in NBA history.

On Jan. 8, on the second night of a back-to-back, former Kings head coach Mike Brown and his Knicks play in Sacramento. The Knicks are coming off their first NBA Championship since 1973. It won’t be his first time back in Sacramento, but Kings fans adore Brown, so he’s sure to receive a warm welcome after reaching new heights in the Concrete Jungle.

Following a torn Achilles in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals, the former King Tyrese Haliburton is back this season after missing the entirety of last year. He’s battled through rehab and a case of shingles, but he’s NBA-ready come October. On Feb. 17, his Indiana Pacers play their only game in Sacramento.

A Chance to Build Momentum

The NBA is as much a momentum game as it is a talent one. Similar to how a team starts a game, the beginning of a season can give a rough estimate of where a team stands compared to the rest of the league.

Interestingly, the Kings play the Los Angeles Clippers on the road to begin and end their season. They play just two playoff teams in their first seven outings. A lighter beginning to the schedule is exactly what the doctor ordered for an organization looking to shock the world. Sacramento finishes up their campaign playing four playoff teams in their last seven games.

In November, Sacramento plays 11 of their 13 games at home. For a team that performed poorly last year, they’re sure to feed off the energy of a rejuvenated Sacramento crowd.

No matter the circumstances, Kings fans show up in numbers. Even when the team was 6-22 at the bottom of the Western Conference, Kings fans generated a loud crowd-pop after a Dennis Schröder game-winner.

https://twitter.com/NBA/status/2002979147782688935?s=20

That’s not to say the Kings will have a poor season, but it doesn’t hurt that their most home-heavy month comes when they aren’t officially out of the playoff race. The stands will be full, and the passion and intensity of Kings fans will be palpable.

Making the most of important stretches of games is pivotal for teams eager to put the NBA on notice. If they can take advantage of a surplus of home games, momentum can swing their way.

The Schedule Gets Tougher

January will be jam-packed. Across 19 days, the Kings play 12 games. They also face four back-to-backs during the month. This will test the strength and endurance of their rookies, who are used to shorter seasons with games more spread out.

February is a travel-heavy month for the Kings. The team flies roughly 11,600 miles, including 6,000+ over just six days (Feb. 9-14). That stretch of games sees them playing in Milwaukee, Houston, Indianapolis, then Atlanta, an interesting zig-zag from the Midwest, to Texas, to the Midwest again, then the Southeast, not to mention they have to fly back home thousands of miles.

Total travel mileage is an area where the Kings stand out, although rankings vary by methodology. The Yahoo! Sports staff ranks Sacramento fourth in miles traveled, while Courtsketch‘s calculations rank them first. Discrepancies aside, the Kings face one of the NBA’s heavier travel schedules, as they’re projected to travel over 48,000 miles in both models.

Final Record Prediction

It’s tough to determine how the Kings will perform this season. Their preferred starting lineup last year was Russell Westbrook, LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, Murray, and Sabonis. Westbrook has retired, and the Kings waived DeRozan, whereas LaVine, Murray, and Sabonis were rarely on the floor. At the trade deadline, they added Hunter to the mix, but he played just two games due to a detached retina.

After the draft, the new expected starting five are Darius Acuff Jr., LaVine, Hunter, Murray, and Sabonis. Until they play any minutes as a unit, it’s unfair to judge them harshly. That said, this does not appear to be a core that will lead the Kings to a playoff trip.

The team’s main goal, apart from a playoff berth, should be to remain above the relegation zone. Due to the new NBA Draft Lottery rules, teams that land in the 14-15th spots in their conferences are no longer rewarded with the highest odds in the draft. Winning games is a must, and this intriguing core can and should do it.

The Kings should finish above last season’s win total. 34-48 seems reasonable. Both conferences feature powerhouses, but also beatable opponents. They’re sure to squeak out a few upsets, along with expected victories over lackluster teams.

The post What Stands Out About the Kings’ 2026-27 Schedule? appeared first on The Lead.

On August 3, Jake Fischer of The Stein Line reported that the Sacramento Kings are interested in signing 37-year-old Russell Westbrook or 34-year-old Victor Oladipo.

Whichever of the two former All-Star guards the Kings pick up would take on the role of backup point guard to rookie Darius Acuff Jr. They’d also have the opportunity to mentor the young guard whom the organization believes has what it takes to be their next superstar.

Which of the two players fits the team the best, and how likely is it that they’d even end up in Sacramento?

Westbrook Already Proved He Belongs in Sacramento

Westbrook signed a one-year minimum contract with the Kings last offseason. While he originally came off the bench behind veteran guard Dennis Schröder, he earned the starting nod in November. Westbrook built strong relationships with young players like Nique Clifford, who idolized the former MVP growing up.

While the Kings finished with a 22-60 record, Westbrook stood out on the stat sheet. He averaged 15.2 points, 6.7 assists, and 5.4 rebounds per game across 64 outings. Despite NBA fans notoriously calling him “Westbrick” because of his poor shooting splits, he made 128 three-pointers, more than any other member of the Kings.

One would think that the Kings would attempt to re-sign him immediately after the season ended, but financial constraints have forced them to wait out free agency. Westbrook believes he outperformed a minimum contract, and he may very well be right. But he’s still available as of now.

The Kings can’t afford to pay Westbrook a standard deal at this point, as they sit just below the luxury tax. Teams like the Washington Wizards and Miami Heat have previously expressed interest in signing him, but neither side has reached a deal. Thus, the Kings are playing the waiting game.

Westbrook Could Be the Perfect Mentor for Acuff

Something else to note is that while the Kings are interested in bringing back Westbrook, the feeling may not be mutual. This is Westbrook’s 19th NBA season, and he has yet to win a championship. He may feel it’s in his best interest to join a contender and play a minimal role, rather than act as a mentor on a Kings team in the middle of a rebuild.

If the Kings were to land Westbrook, he’d be a great guide for Acuff as he takes on the role of “point guard of the future” in Sacramento. Acuff has generated plenty of hype, and who better than one of the greatest point guards of all time to offer him advice?

The two players have many similarities in their skill sets. Both are incredibly speedy with the ball in their hands, and they know exactly when to showcase a burst of speed to reach their spots.

In college, Acuff demonstrated his playmaking prowess, averaging 6.4 assists per game, which led the SEC. Westbrook is fifth in NBA history in terms of career assists. He certainly has plenty of advice to share with the young guard.

The all-time leader in triple-doubles, Westbrook has made a living through finding open teammates and giving them the best opportunity to score. He can help Acuff get accustomed to the NBA’s tempo and utilizing his facilitating skills in a faster-paced offense.

There’s no denying that Westbrook would be an incredible mentor to Acuff. There are few point guards in the NBA who can provide the guidance the nine-time All-NBA honoree can. The only question is whether Sacramento is where he wants to sign as the end of his storied career looms ahead.

Oladipo’s Road Back to the NBA Runs Through Sacramento

The last time Oladipo played an NBA minute was April 22, 2023, for the Miami Heat. In that game, he tore his left patellar tendon, a season-ending injury that forced him to rehab for months.

Later, he returned to professional basketball, playing in China starting in October 2025. He entered the G League pool in November, landed with the Wisconsin Herd, and was later traded to the Cleveland Charge.

Now, Oladipo is seeking to rejoin the NBA, and the Kings have expressed interest. The team’s general manager, Scott Perry, and assistant general manager, BJ Armstrong, attended a workout Oladipo hosted for executives from across the league. He has since privately worked out with the Kings in Sacramento. This is a sign that they have genuine interest in the seasoned professional.

In the 2017-18 season, a year he spent with the Indiana Pacers, Oladipo won Most Improved Player, earned Third Team All-NBA honors, and made the All-Defensive First Team. He was a well-rounded, yet explosive guard. He could attack the rim with authority on one possession, then force a turnover the next.

Analysts have criticized Acuff for his poor defensive performances and lack of effort on that end of the floor. Oladipo can coach the rookie on defense and provide real-time guidance. Injuries derailed much of his career, but the process of motivating himself to come back stronger can also be relayed to Acuff.

Looking at the signing itself, Oladipo would be a gamble, to say the least. It’s one thing for a team to take on an older veteran; it’s another to sign one who hasn’t performed at an NBA level in more than three years.

The ultimate question is what specific role they’d want Oladipo to play within games. If they’re looking for mentorship and not someone to play 20-25 minutes per night, he’d be a perfect fit. If they expect him to command the second unit from day one, that’s a lot of pressure on his shoulders. He hasn’t played a fully healthy season since 2018.

Sacramento Offers Oladipo the Right Situation

Oladipo deserves a chance at the NBA level, and Sacramento may be the perfect setting. The Kings are in the middle of a rebuild, though they’re very close to the luxury tax, which limits their flexibility despite the playoffs being out of the picture.

The new lottery rules do not reward the league’s worst teams as heavily. Teams ranked fourth-10th possess three “lottery balls,” whereas the top three end up with just two.

The question of Oladipo vs. Westbrook isn’t necessarily a make-or-break one. The Kings weren’t healthy last year, but found themselves in what would now be the sweet spot for a top pick. With players like Domantas Sabonis, De’Andre Hunter, and Zach LaVine back from injury, their floor is decently high. 

For what it’s worth, the Kings’ play-by-play commentator Mark Jones posted on Instagram that he worked out with Oladipo in Miami. He shared that the guard’s bounce and burst looked on point. Along with that, he has an “unyielding and unrelenting… desire to get back into the league.”

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It’s important to take everything with a grain of salt, but Jones, someone who’s been in the commentary business for 36 years, giving such high praise to Oladipo should not be taken lightly. Granted, Jones witnessed Oladipo put in work on a practice floor, not against NBA-level competition.

Sacramento may be the perfect landing spot for Oladipo. But Oladipo may not be the perfect option for Sacramento. The Kings want to sign the player who gives them the best chance to win. Who exactly is that?

Westbrook Is the Safer Bet, but Money Could Decide

The main difference between Oladipo and Westbrook is how much they can immediately produce.

Westbrook has deep chemistry with almost every current King, apart from those drafted this year. He just averaged 15-6-5 and was a key reason the team stayed competitive in games they had no business winning. He’s comfortable in the modern NBA and in head coach Doug Christie‘s system.

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Oladipo, on the other hand, has missed significant time due to injury. He would be an entirely new face in Sacramento and lacks the explosiveness he once had. Westbrook may be 37, but he can still turn losses into wins. He is the better player at this juncture, but that fact alone doesn’t guarantee he’ll wind up with the Kings.

Say the franchise had the same amount of interest in both players. Oladipo would likely accept a minimum “prove-it” contract with the Kings. Westbrook has already proven he’s capable of being a difference-maker thanks to his impressive campaign last year. Now, he’s looking for money the Kings are unable to offer.

There is, of course, a world where Oladipo turns things around and becomes one of Perry’s best signings to date. However, the Kings are serious about returning to contention status sooner rather than later. Westbrook’s experience with the team’s system and readiness to perform at a high level are the way to go.

Both can provide much-needed guidance to Acuff. Only one comes with the assurance that they can be a spark plug and impact winning. That player is Westbrook. The only question that remains is if he has any interest in being a King again.

The post Who Fits the Kings Best: Russell Westbrook or Victor Oladipo? appeared first on The Lead.

Maxime Raynaud earned a spot on last year’s NBA All-Rookie Second Team primarily for his play around the rim. The Kings, however, believe the 7-foot-1 center is capable of much more.

In a chat with Spotrac’s Keith Smith, an anonymous Kings assistant coach highlighted that Raynaud has grown as a shooter. They also discussed the possibility of Raynaud playing alongside Domantas Sabonis at times because of their complementary skill sets.

Raynaud’s willingness to shoot from deep stood out during his two NBA Summer League outings this offseason. He confidently stepped behind the three-point line and showcased a smoother jump shot. Has he shown enough development to warrant defenders and fans alike considering him a “stretch big?”

Raynaud’s Increase in Volume

Last season, Raynaud averaged one three-point attempt per game and made 32.4% of them. While his efficiency left much to be desired, his statistics and volume changed significantly over the course of the season. In November, the month he first began receiving substantial minutes, he attempted just nine three-pointers. In April, a month where the Kings played only six games, he took 12.

Raynaud’s emerging confidence from three-point range coincided with the Kings naming him the starting center while Sabonis dealt with a torn meniscus in his left knee. Sacramento trusted him to play 20-30+ minutes per night, and in doing so, opened the door to the development of his game. Raynaud still lived close to the rim, but he slowly began to branch out as a player.

On July 12, in a Summer League game against the Washington Wizards, Raynaud scored 20 points on 2-of-5 from long distance. He tied his career-high for attempts in a game, exuding poise and belief in his shooting.

The showdown against the Wizards was his first after playing two games overseas for the French National Team. His stroke was fluid, and he even changed his shooting form. His new form and minimized hitch in his shot worked wonders, as he combined to shoot 3-for-7 in two Summer League games.

Raynaud’s Shooting Shakes up the Roster

Recent reporting from Sactown Sports 1140’s Matt George suggests Raynaud may play fewer minutes than second-year center Dylan Cardwell this year. Cardwell excels as an interior defender, an archetype which is few and far between in Sacramento.

Raynaud’s defensive shortcomings could limit his role, but his improved shooting may very well offset them. In today’s NBA, one of the most valuable skills any player, especially a big man, can have is shooting. The modern game relies on spacing, and if Raynaud can operate outside the paint, he can help open up the Kings’ offense tremendously.

A Raynaud-Cardwell duo off the bench may begin to emerge this season depending on how Raynaud’s shooting progresses. The Kings tried starting the two together twice during the NBA Summer League, but lost both games. Teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers and Oklahoma City Thunder have seen success with double-big lineups.

Raynaud’s shooting development could also strengthen his chemistry with Darius Acuff Jr. if he becomes a consistent threat from deep. Acuff attracts a lot of attention from the defense when he speeds into the paint. Should the defense collapse to meet him at the rim, Raynaud will surely be open in the dunker spot at times. But he could also elect to stay beyond the arc and knock down a three following a kick-out pass from Acuff.

Is Raynaud’s Shot Trustworthy?

It’s too early to call Raynaud a stretch big, but his growth over the past year has turned heads. Little by little, he’s shown that the three-point shot is in his arsenal. All he needs is the free rein and coaching to improve his efficiency and form. Since he started 56 games last season, he already gained valuable reps against high-level talent.

To classify Raynaud as a trustworthy three-point shooter, he’d need to float in the 35-37% range during the season on solid volume. Expect his attempts per game to increase, despite being back on the bench. The year will test not just his jump shot’s fluidity and efficiency, but also how he gets to his spots.

Two Summer League games and a strong finish to last season don’t erase questions about his outside shot. Opposing defenses need to see him knock down three-pointers at a frequent rate before they’ll treat him like a legitimate floor-spacing threat.

Raynaud’s refined shooting mechanics and increased eagerness to shoot threes indicate the expansion of his offensive game beyond rim-running. The regular season will determine whether Raynaud earns the “stretch big” label, but he’s already shown enough growth to make his shooting development an intriguing storyline for Kings fans to follow.

The post How Does Maxime Raynaud’s Shooting Impact the Kings? appeared first on The Lead.

The 2026 NBA free agency cycle kicked off on June 30. Since that date, the Sacramento Kings have re-signed two free agents, Daeqwon Plowden and Precious Achiuwa. They waived DeMar DeRozan (and may potentially stretch his contract) and Isaiah Stevens, and signed two players, Jonathan Mogbo and Adam Flagler, to two-way contracts. Other than those small moves, the Kings have been sidelined with their rivals getting better and stronger every day.

What’s stopping the Kings from landing free agents?

Kings’ Financial Troubles

Despite rebuilding, the Kings have the NBA’s 10th-largest payroll. Thanks to them waiving DeRozan’s guaranteed money, they saved up to $15.7 million. Five players are owed over $20 million this season, with Domantas Sabonis and Zach LaVine each owed over $40 million.

Because of their financial standing, the Kings have spent this summer offloading salary. Some moves they’ve made include the aforementioned waiving of DeRozan and Stevens, letting players like Russell Westbrook walk in free agency, and trading former first-round pick Devin Carter to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for the draft rights to 30-year-old Alpha Kaba.

After going through with these moves and signing all three rookies drafted in the 2026 NBA Draft, the Kings find themselves with just one open roster spot to work with. They currently sit below the luxury tax, but offering a player a contract as small as a minimum would put them over. This would force the organization to pay progressive cash fines.

The team does have the option of converting a player on a two-way contract to a standard one. However, this would push them over the line if done now. They also have the option of converting a player like Mogbo later on in the season, so as not to pay him a full season’s salary.

Scott Perry Is Trying to Bring in Free Agents

That being said, the Kings can still acquire another piece via a sign-and-trade. Last offseason, they were in talks to trade for Golden State Warriors restricted free agent Jonathan Kuminga. This offseason, they had a chance to trade for Detroit Pistons All-NBA center Jalen Duren, who met with general manager Scott Perry.

Since Perry took charge, more players have been interested in joining the Kings, but trades have never worked out. Perry does a solid job getting his foot in the door and appealing to stars, but he can’t get them to sign on the dotted line.

The Warriors shied away from any offers the Kings brought up, signing Kuminga to a two-year $46.8 million contract before trading him to the Hawks. The Kings have dangled Sabonis in negotiations for Duren, but the Pistons have no interest. They’ve yet to offer Duren a contract he likes, though.

The question on fans’ minds is: Do these players want to join Sacramento for the culture or simply because the team is overeager to pay them? Perhaps neither of the two are “bad things.” For years, not even an overpaid contract was enough to pique players’ interest in joining the Kings.

Sacramento’s Appeal Gap

Sacramento has the 23rd-largest population among NBA cities. It doesn’t have the nightlife of Miami, the big-city feel of New York City or the ocean-view high-rises of San Francisco. For young, up-and-coming stars, Sacramento is not the most desirable location.

Some players enjoy the quiet nature of Sacramento and its surrounding cities. Sabonis lives in Napa with his family, where he owns and operates a vineyard. More veterans decide to make the switch to the City of Trees than players nearing or in the middle of their prime.

Another reason free agents haven’t tended to pick Sacramento is the culture. The Kings have made the postseason once over the last twenty seasons. A string of poor decisions on draft night and questionable trades by the front office have forced the franchise into a perpetual state of losing.

The one thing the Kings have going for them is their incredible fanbase. Despite poor outcomes every season, fans still show up and generate some of the loudest “crowd pops” in the entire NBA.

In the past, the Kings have pursued numerous All-Stars, but they chose to sign elsewhere, like Andre Iguodala in 2013.

One outlier was DeRozan, who chose to be a part of a sign-and-trade to the Kings in 2024.

Overall, most free agents overlook the Kings, as many seek the limelight that larger markets provide.

A Culture Change is Coming

As LaVine and De’Andre Hunter‘s contracts expire after this season, along with Sabonis’ the following year, Sacramento’s culture is changing. A wave of young talent is embracing what the city has to offer. The Kings drafted difference-makers this year in Darius Acuff Jr., Alex Karaban, and Emanuel Sharp.

Some teams draft purely for untapped potential, but Perry tends to take chances on older prospects who’ve proven to be great players and people. For instance, after Karaban finished his workout with the Kings, he stayed and encouraged others throughout their workout processes. Perry’s picks are character selections.

Can Sacramento Become a Top Destination?

In the midst of a chaotic, mismatched lineup, a young core has emerged. Duren and Kuminga were the first examples of players seeking out Sacramento after the Perry administration’s initial moves. While trades for the two haven’t worked out, Perry is utilizing his connections and respect around the league to his advantage.

Sacramento itself is a changing city. It currently possesses a major league baseball team in the Athletics. While the Athletics will be moving to Las Vegas later this decade, Sacramento is working hard to be the host of one of the two expansion teams created in the next cycle.  They also recently announced a multi-million dollar sports and shopping complex for their soccer club, Sacramento Republic FC.

For years, the draft felt like the Kings’ only path to improvement. That may be changing. A stronger culture and future cap flexibility could eventually make Sacramento a more attractive free-agent destination.

The post Will the Sacramento Kings Ever Become a Free Agent Destination? appeared first on The Lead.

Mario Hezonja informed Real Madrid that he’s looking to rejoin the NBA earlier this week.

Before that, Hezonja, a Croatian-born forward, played five seasons in the NBA with multiple teams. The Orlando Magic drafted him in 2015 with the fifth overall pick. The Knicks signed him in 2018, and Portland did the same in 2019.

It’s possible the Sacramento Kings have genuine interest in signing Hezonja to a minimum-salary contract. One reason Sacramento makes sense is that their general manager, Scott Perry, was the vice president of the Magic when they drafted Hezonja. Perry later served as the Knicks’ general manager from 2017-2023, encouraging Hezonja to sign with the Knicks instead of the Kings.

Hezonja’s Time in the NBA

Hezonja stands 6-foot-9, playing small forward and power forward during his NBA career. Since leaving the NBA, he’s made a name for himself overseas, playing for several teams, including Greece’s Panathinaikos, Russia’s UNICS, and Spain’s Real Madrid.

Coming into the 2015 NBA draft, teams were intrigued by his shooting ability, as well as his athleticism and ball handling. Aside from a few standouts like Karl Anthony-Towns and Devin Booker, the draft lacked star power. Scouts widely regarded him as one of the best shooters in his class.

Before the draft, he shot a higher percentage from 25-29 feet from the hoop than 20-24 feet.

More than a decade later, it’s still necessary to wield players that can stretch the floor. Hezonja provides that and more. With a quick first step, he can burn defenders closing out on potential shot attempts and use his frame to finish in the interior.

In transition, Hezonja utilizes speed to race to the rim and throw down dunks — just ask Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Hezonja’s first stint in the NBA ended after the 2019-2020 season. He averaged close to 16 minutes per game, one of his lowest career marks. He felt exasperated, but had the opportunity to revitalize his career in Greece, playing for Panathinaikos.

Hezonja’s European Progression

During his time in Europe, Hezonja’s playing style has matured. He showed flashes of defensive potential in the NBA, but prioritized his offensive game instead. Overseas, he’s blossomed into the two-way specialist that scouts believed he could be.

During the 2025 EuroBasket qualifiers, Hezonja averaged 30.3 points, 9.3 rebounds, 3.8 assists and 2.0 steals per game for Croatia. Hezonja is an incredibly versatile scorer and his play on the European circuit solidified that notion. His two steals per game are a testament to his growth as a defender, showing he can guard multiple positions without much trouble.

Hezonja averaged 17.5 points, 4.9 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game last season. He helped Real Madrid reach the EuroLeague Championship game before falling to Olympiakos, led by former Sacramento King Sasha Vezenkov.

He’s the prototype of a player teams always look for to pounce upon: a larger wing who can make an impact on both sides of the ball. Hezonja has progressed as an off-ball mover, navigating through the defense to gain position and receive passes from teammates. His talented shot creation ability hasn’t lost a beat in Europe, making him one of the most multi-faceted free agents on the market.

Hezonja racked up notable accolades in Europe, like the 2025-26 Spanish League MVP and being named to the 2023-24 All-EuroLeague Second Team. Recently, he earned MVP honors in the first round of 2027 FIBA World Cup qualifiers, putting up an 11-point, 10-rebound and 12-assist triple-double.

The former lottery pick returns to the NBA with an improved game and a chip on his shoulder. He would likely sign for a veteran minimum contract, essentially a “prove-it” deal. He is in the middle of his prime with Europe in his back pocket, meaning he has nothing to lose.

Hezonja’s Fit on the Kings

Should the Kings land Hezonja, he will likely receive substantial minutes from Day 1. The Kings are in dire need of wings to provide defensive support off the bench. The second unit has a group of Hezonja, Malik Monk, Emanuel Sharp, Precious Achiuwa and Maxime Raynaud.

Hezonja could work well with Monk, who’s a phenomenal playmaker who’s always looking to make the right pass. With his new off-ball mechanics, Hezonja knows how to swerve to his spots beyond the arc and space the floor. He’d likely take on the role of secondary scorer, capitalizing on the pressure primary ball handlers create and working in open space.

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For years, Hezonja has played with European bigs who possess similar skillsets as Raynaud. Without so much as glancing at the playbook, he would know how to meet the young center’s needs. The offense runs through Raynaud, though he isn’t the one taking the ball up the floor.

For Hezonja, it all comes back to understanding how to fit the role, knowing when to move off-ball and when to show off his isolation scoring. The veteran forward won’t take a second chance in the NBA for granted, and he’ll exhibit the tenacity necessary to prove his worth.

Keep a close eye on Hezonja to the Kings. They know his fit off the bench would be a welcome sight for fans.

The post Keep a Close Eye on Mario Hezonja Signing With the Sacramento Kings appeared first on The Lead.

The NBA Summer League offered an opportunity to witness the Kings’ new rookies, Darius Acuff Jr., Alex Karaban and Emanuel Sharp in action. Fans also watched seasoned second-year prospects like Maxime Raynaud, Dylan Cardwell and Nique Clifford play in several games. There were ups and downs for every player, as the franchise ended with a 2-3 record overall.

With that said, here are some key takeaways from the Kings’ Summer League.

No Need for Overreactions About Darius Acuff

Acuff played five Summer League games, finishing with splits of 20.8 points, 4.6 assists, and 1.6 rebounds per game. His efficiency was poor, with shooting splits of 35% from the field overall, 27.7% from three, and 69.9% at the free-throw line.

Under Arkansas Head Coach John Calipari, Acuff was highly efficient in college, shooting nearly 45% from the three-point range. The Kings’ Summer League represents a stark contrast to what made him stand out in his freshman year.

His efficiency shouldn’t be a major cause of concern, though, as it is tough for most rookies to adjust to the pace of the NBA. Without much offensive support, defenses consistently pressured Acuff and forced him into contested shots. His teammates often provided little off-ball movement, so Acuff was usually on an island and needed to call his own shot.

He thrived as the primary ball handler and shot creator in college, but physicality at the NBA level is incredibly different. Defenders can latch onto someone like glue.

Acuff’s last game of Summer League against the Brooklyn Nets was a sight for sore eyes for Kings fans. He settled in and shot 9-of-18 from the field, scoring 26 points.

A common argument from critics is that he scored most of his points when that game was decided. In Summer League, however, there is no break from full-court presses and unique defensive sets. Every single player is on a mission to prove themselves.

Acuff handled the pressure of the moment and seized the opportunity to allow Kings fans to breathe a sigh of relief. He still managed to score at will throughout the Summer League, but adjustments to his play style were made in order to survive.

Thanks to his tight ball handling, he could drive to the hoop and finish through contact. With the three-point line deeper in the NBA compared to college, he strengthened his shot and found his flow in Las Vegas. Gradually, he found ways to contribute positively in games without being a detriment due to poor efficiency.

Critics have frequently question Acuff’s defense, but he improved his effort and overall technique each game. He’s not going to be a “solid” defender this year, but he’s learning to play team defense. If he can find a way to not be a liability on that end, he can take on a role similar to the Knicks’ Jalen Brunson.

Kings Defense Turns Heads

Over the past decade, one of the Kings’ main downfalls has been their lack of length and determination on the defensive end. Two recent additions, Jonathan Mogbo and Sharp, are helping change the narrative in Sacramento.

Mogbo, standing at 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot-2 wingspan, attended the University of San Francisco. He was selected with the 31st pick in the 2024 NBA Draft by the Toronto Raptors. The Raptors declined to pick up his $2.3 million team option, so he was available on the free agent market.

The Kings signed Mogbo to a two-way contract. He plays with a high motor, never giving up on plays even when they appear to be over. Whether by snatching rebounds over larger opponents or skying for impressive blocks, Mogbo is always a difference maker.

During the Summer League, he posted impressive defensive outputs, averaging 2.0 blocks per game. While his offensive game still needs work, he found ways to turn stout defense into easy buckets.

In his first Summer League game against the Brooklyn Nets, he posted five blocks en route to a comeback win. The Kings trailed by 19 points in the second quarter, but Mogbo helped ignite a young Kings squad.

Another spark in that contest came from second-round pick Emanuel Sharp.

The Kings took Sharp, a senior from the University of Houston, with the 45th pick because of his impressive three-point shooting and defense. Via Summer League, he instantly proved that the Kings’ front office made the right choice by drafting him.

During his first game in Las Vegas against the Los Angeles Clippers, the Kings consistently tasked him with defending the fifth overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, Keaton Wagler. He played as if someone glued him onto his assignment, forcing the highly touted prospect into difficult shots or scenarios where he had to pass the ball away.

Wagler finished the game with just seven points, shooting 1-of-7 from the field. That was due, in part, to Sharp’s physicality. It can be tough for young guards to learn how to defend great players without fouling, but Sharp seems to have already mastered that skill.

Sharp averaged 2.8 steals per game during the Las Vegas Summer League, leading all Kings players and tying for fourth among all qualified players.

Marquel Sutton Was a Diamond in the Rough

On June 24, the Kings signed undrafted free agent Marquel Sutton to their Summer League roster. Little did they know he’d be the catalyst for multiple wins. The former Summit League Player of the Year had come off an impressive senior year at LSU, where he averaged 13.8 points and 7.3 rebounds per game.

The Kings were interested in Sutton’s ability to stretch the floor and guard multiple positions. He did not disappoint, playing 19.2 minutes per game across eight games. In a matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks, he scored 24 points, shooting 4-of-8 on three-pointers. He closed the Summer League out as a starter on a depleted Kings team, scoring 13 points on 5-of-7 from the field.

Fans online have lobbied for Sutton to receive a two-way contract for the upcoming season. The only problem is that the three slots are already filled by Mogbo, Adam Flagler, and Isaiah Stevens. Flagler, a former Oklahoma City Thunder, was highly inefficient and potentially played himself out of his two-way deal.

Sutton provides length, high-quality defense and impressive skills beyond the arc, traits that all teams covet. He is also an efficient free-throw shooter for a wing, shooting 82.4% from the line in college. He possesses a quick first step and invites contact at the rim.

The Kings are lucky that Sutton fell into their laps and should not waste the opportunity to secure him long-term.

A Broken Touch Around the Rim

One of the standout rookies for the Kings last year was Cardwell, who previously played at the University of Auburn. Cardwell has a knack for blocking shots and using his enthusiastic, energetic nature to get the crowd behind him. Despite a season characterized by blowout losses, Cardwell was a box-office-level player that fans adored.

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Throughout much of the Summer League, Cardwell was asked to operate as a starting center, with Raynaud missing games while playing overseas for his home country, France. Some of Cardwell’s flaws came to light and nearly cost the Kings numerous games. Viewers discovered his touch around the rim and free-throw shooting needs a lot of work.

On his free-throws specifically, he shot a combined 2-of-8 at the California Classic. This led him to completely change his shooting form in Las Vegas, opting for a higher-arcing shot. Nothing seemed to work, though, and defenders even resorted to intentionally fouling him to send him to the line.

If Cardwell wants to play significant minutes for the Kings down the stretch of games, he needs to find a way to improve his release, so he doesn’t wind up being an offensive liability at times like Mitchell Robinson of the Boston Celtics. Robinson, however, is known for his overall efficiency, but Cardwell was inefficient during the Summer League.

He tried a variety of shots close to the rim, including hook shots, floaters and even your average layup, but something seemed off. He finished Summer League with splits of 51.3% from the field, 0% on three-pointers and 40% on free throws.

Cardwell’s defense was exactly where you’d like it to be, coming off an impressive season where he put up 3.5 blocks per 48 minutes played. He must work hard to ensure that he doesn’t join the list of notable “hack-a’s” in NBA history with Hack-a-Shaq and Hack-a-Mitch.

Kings Outlook for Next Season

The Kings are in the midst of a rebuild, replacing veterans on large contracts with young, high-upside players. Despite a selection of talented rookies and second-year players, the next couple of seasons won’t be pretty. This is a time for development and increased connectivity.

Sacramento’s front office is banking on their young pieces ushering in an era of winning basketball.

The post What Are the Biggest Takeaways From the Kings’ Summer League? appeared first on The Lead.

The Sacramento Kings may have finally found their point guard of the future by selecting Darius Acuff Jr. The organization drafted him seventh overall in the highly touted 2026 NBA Draft. The coaching staff expects him to be a starter immediately, but there is a gap at backup point guard.

The Kings traded previous backups Dennis Schröder and Keon Ellis last season, and Russell Westbrook‘s one-year minimum contract has expired. As a result, the Kings find themselves without a true backup point guard.

Acuff should contribute immediately, but as a rookie, he still has a lot to learn. The Kings have tried converting several shooting guards into ball handlers but without success. They could look within the organization for a backup, but if not, what options do they have to fill that vital backup position?

The Free Agency Option

The Kings have two open roster spots for a free-agent point guard seeking a fresh start. The only issue is that the Kings are currently above the luxury tax. Any addition needs to sign for the minimum, limiting Sacramento to veterans and unproven guards.

No NBA team has signed Lakers and Hawks guard Gabe Vincent — it’s been a week since the moratorium period ended. Vincent averaged just 4.4 points, 1.4 assists, and 1 rebound per game last season. He made over $11 million in the process.

Vincent’s unsigned status suggests teams aren’t offering the contract he wants. As time ticks by during free agency, Vincent may be more willing to accept a minimum contract. In that case, the Kings could swoop in and sign him.

While his statistics last season weren’t fantastic, he is the exact lead ball-handler the Kings are looking for. He could also mentor Acuff while providing veteran leadership.

Vincent started for a Heat team that reached the 2023 NBA Finals. He’s faced adversity every step of his career. He went undrafted out of UC Santa Barbara, made a name for himself in the G-League and eventually earned a Heat roster spot. While being the leader of a second unit may not be how he envisioned his career going at this stage, it’s a role he would learn to thrive in.

Another option is former first-round pick Cole Anthony. The Orlando Magic included him in the Desmond Bane trade before bouncing between Memphis, Milwaukee and Phoenix, eventually ending up as a free agent.

Last season, Anthony averaged 6.7 points, 3.5 assists, and 2.5 rebounds per game, shooting 42.4% from the field and 30.6% from three-point range.  He is a skilled shot creator who attacks the paint well and rebounds effectively for his size.

His biggest criticism is shot selection, as he often hunts his own offense instead of creating for teammates. Nonetheless, he still possesses many of the tools needed to provide the Kings the backup point guard they’re looking for.

At 26, Anthony still has room and time to grow as a facilitator. The Kings bench has plenty of solid options to turn to when looking to make a correct read, like Clifford, Monk, Precious Achiuwa and Alex Karaban.

A final option the Kings should look into is former Houston Rockets guard Aaron Holiday. Holiday is an efficient shooter, with marks of 41.7% from the field overall, and 39.4% from beyond the arc for his career. While he averaged just 5.5 points, 1.1 assist, and 1.0 rebounds per game in Houston, he still had a positive impact on games.

Holiday consistently uses his impressive speed to score in transition and on isolation attacks to the rim. With a quick first step, he can drive to the basket and force defenders to collapse on him, leaving open teammates. The Kings boast several spacers like Karaban who can knock down open shots at a high rate. The space generated by Holiday is substantial.

Unlike the two previously mentioned guards, Holiday has also made a name for himself on the defensive end. He stands at just 6-foot-1, but his wingspan is 6-foot-7.5. This makes his perimeter defending solid and him well worth taking a chance on.

The Internal or Former King Option

There is, of course, a world where the Kings’ front office looks at the pieces they have, or recently had, and sticks with them. In such a tough financial spot, with both Domantas Sabonis and Zach LaVine owed over $40 million, it would make sense to cut their losses. If they were to look internally, they would likely turn to Monk or Clifford.

The Kings attempted to play Monk at point guard after trading De’Aaron Fox in February 2025, but the move didn’t work. Monk was loose with the ball and saw his efficiency drop. Granted, that came after the Kings promoted him to the starting lineup.

During the 2023-2024 season, Monk was the runner-up in Sixth Man of the Year voting, showing he’s more than capable of leading the second unit. He received this honor operating as a secondary ball-handler and primary scorer though, not as the primary initiator of the offense.

Recently, Monk has dealt with numerous injuries, hindering his burst and first step. Those are two skills that make him great. If he can stay healthy and no free agent guards are willing to sign with Sacramento, the Kings front office would probably decide to give him the keys to the offense.

Clifford’s handle was a lot tighter in the recent California Classic. He was turnover-prone at times, but he showed dramatic improvements from last season. He could assume some ball-handling responsibilities, but he tends to be easily fazed by the slightest bit of ball pressure.

A healthy mix of Monk and Clifford could work wonders for the second unit. The Kings crave consistency though, that’s why they may look to re-sign one of their own former point guards in the free agent market.

The aforementioned Westbrook averaged over 15 points, six assists, and five rebounds per game over the course of last season. He managed to outperform his minimum contract.

Westbrook is now looking to claim a standard contract and has received interest from several teams. Marc Stein and Jake Fischer recently reported that the Washington Wizards are looking into signing him. The details of what the contract would look like have not yet been revealed.

Last offseason, Westbrook received varied levels of interest from different teams. When the offseason came to a close, he was a King. There could very well see a similar result in the coming months, and he’d be forced to accept another minimum deal if he hopes to remain in the NBA.

The Waiting Period

After the Las Vegas Summer League concludes, the resolution to this problem will be closer to being revealed. All NBA teams are hoping to sign younger, up-and-coming prospects over aging veterans. The market features a bounty of  talent, but signings remain at a standstill.

For now, the Kings remain on the fence about where their backup point guard should come from. The 2026-27 season will likely be a rebuilding year for the franchise, but they still seek direction. A reliable backup to Acuff would elevate the team.

The post Where Will the Sacramento Kings Find Their Backup Point Guard? appeared first on The Lead.