Pre-Draft Outlook
There is no reason the Kings’ happy 2022-23 can’t be repeated. Their starting lineup is one of the NBA’s most stable (De’Aaron Fox, Kevin Huerter, Keegan Murray, Domantas Sabonis and Harrison Barnes — who is a free agent this summer). Winning the Pacific and earning that first playoff berth since 2006 should make them more eager this time around. Opponents might be taking them more seriously next season but presumably the Kings will do the same and tuck away victories before they drop into Mr. Cluch’s (Fox) lap.
The Way To Go
Sacramento’s defensive play ranked 24th in efficiency, about 14 spots shy of where it should be to seriously take charge as a contender. It could use some more size at power forward and center, too, give the workload Sabonis carries. The big guy already has pledged to work on his shooting this offseason, but the Kings need more. They also need helpers on the boards: after Sabonis’ 12.3 rpg, no teammate averaged more than 4.6.
— Steve Aschburner
Here’s a quick look at who the Sacramento Kings have under contract, who is a free agent this summer and who they added in the 2022 NBA Draft.
Under Contract
G: Malik Monk
G: De’Aaron Fox
G: Davion Mitchell
G/F: PJ Dozier
G/F: Kevin Huerter
F: Richaun Holmes
F: Keegan Murray
F/C: Domantas Sabonis
Free Agents
G: Matthew Dellavedova (unrestricted)
G: Terence Davis (unrestricted)
G: Keon Ellis (two-way)
F: Harrison Barnes (unrestricted)
F: Kessler Edwards (team option)
F: Trey Lyles (unrestricted)
F/C: Chimezie Metu (unrestricted)
C: Alex Len (unrestricted)
C: Neemias Queta (two-way)
> 2023 Free Agent Tracker
Last Year’s Draft
2022: Keegan Murray (4), Jaden Hardy (37)**
* = acquired via trade
** = traded in draft-night deal
*** = traded in offseason deal