New Sacramento Kings general manager Scott Perry is still familiarizing himself with the team’s roster, but he’s already recognized some key areas that need improvement. At his introductory press conference at the Golden 1 Center, Perry discussed the team’s current needs, including roster construction and the team’s overall identity. Following a 40-42 record that left them ninth in the Western Conference, and a trade that sent star point guard De’Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs, Perry has a task ahead of him to improve the team. The trade brought Zach LaVine to Sacramento, joining a core group that also includes Malik Monk, DeMar DeRozan, Keegan Murray, and Domantas Sabonis, though Perry suggested changes may still be on the horizon.
Perry emphasized that the Kings need to add more size, length, athleticism, defense, and a true point guard. “I’m just learning this roster,” Perry shared. “I’ve watched them from afar. There is some talent here. Obviously, there’s not a true point guard on the roster. Also, as I assess it from afar, I think we need to add more length and athleticism to enhance some of the talent that’s here.” After Fox’s trade on Feb. 3, Monk and Keon Ellis filled in at point guard, while LaVine, DeRozan, and Sabonis took on more ball-handling duties. There has been speculation that the Kings might explore trades for players like Trae Young or LaMelo Ball. They may also pursue free-agent point guards like Russell Westbrook, who has a player option with the Denver Nuggets, or Chris Paul, who is set to become a free agent this summer. Other potential free-agent point guards include Dennis Schroder, Tre Jones, Gary Payton II, Kyle Lowry, Spencer Dinwiddie, and Tyus Jones.
Sabonis, when asked about the Kings’ needs during exit interviews after the season-ending loss to the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA play-in tournament, immediately highlighted the need for a point guard. Interim coach Doug Christie echoed that sentiment, saying, “You’ve got to have a point guard in this league.” Under Christie, the Kings finished 27-24 in the final 51 games of the season, but struggled to develop a cohesive identity due to significant roster changes and injuries.
Perry acknowledged that a clear identity was lacking within the organization. “Any successful pro sports organization or any company, for that matter, has to have an identity,” he said. “That’s one thing I don’t see here yet, but that’s what I’m all about is establishing an identity.” Perry stressed the importance of toughness, defense, hard work, team play, professionalism, discipline, and accountability for anyone donning a Kings jersey. “I am looking for volunteers to that, not hostages,” Perry said, indicating he’s committed to building a team with players who embody these qualities.