New Sacramento Kings general manager Scott Perry appeared on The Drive Guys to share insights on his draft strategy, his connection with veteran star, and more.
Perry was active during the 2025 NBA Draft, acquiring multiple players. He traded a future first-round pick (San Antonio’s 2027 selection, top-16 protected) to move up and select Colorado State guard/wing Nique Clifford with the 24th pick.
With their original 42nd pick, the Kings selected Maxime Raynaud, a seven-foot stretch big man who played four years at Stanford. Additionally, Auburn’s defensive-minded big man Dylan Cardwell was signed to a two-way contract after going undrafted.
Both Clifford (23) and Raynaud (22) bring extensive college experience to the table, each having played at least four seasons—something Perry said makes the evaluation process more straightforward.
“I appreciate when players have a full body of work you can evaluate,” said new Kings general manager Scott Perry on The Drive Guys.
“These are guys who improved each year in college… When you’re bringing in players who are 22 or 23, they tend to be not just physically stronger but mentally more developed, too.”
That said, Perry emphasized this philosophy doesn’t rule out selecting a younger prospect if they believe he’s the best available talent.
With no current plans to break up their core of Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, Domantas Sabonis, Keegan Murray, Malik Monk, and Keon Ellis, adding more seasoned rookies could help provide immediate contributions. Still, some roster tweaks are expected, and several of those names—DeRozan in particular—have surfaced in trade discussions.
Despite that, Perry noted he met with DeRozan personally last week. “He’s all in,” Perry said. “I’m excited to work with him this season.”
Sacramento’s rookies, including first-rounder Nique Clifford and second-round pick Maxime Raynaud, will make their debut at the 2025 Las Vegas Summer League, which begins July 10 and concludes with the championship game on July 20. The Kings will not be participating in the California Classic this year.
In addition to Clifford and Raynaud, the Kings also signed undrafted Auburn center Dylan Cardwell to a two-way deal, adding a defensive presence in the paint. They also reached an Exhibit 10 agreement with 21-year-old Spanish guard Isaac Nogues, who spent last season with the Rip City Remix in the G League.
What’s Next for the Sacramento Kings This Offseason?
With the 2025 NBA Draft in the rearview, the Sacramento Kings are turning their attention to the next major phase of the offseason: free agency.
Key Dates Ahead
- Monday, June 30 (3 PM PT): NBA free agency negotiation window opens. Teams can begin discussing contracts with players, though no deals can be made official just yet.
- Sunday, July 6: Free agents can officially sign contracts.
- July 10–20: Kings rookies and young players will be in action at the Las Vegas Summer League.
- August (TBD): The NBA is expected to release the 2025–26 regular season schedule.
- September (TBD): Teams, including Sacramento, will open training camp in preparation for the new season.
Big Questions for the Offseason
- Who will Sacramento target in free agency?
- Will GM Scott Perry look to swing any trades to strengthen the roster?
- Will any of the team’s veterans like DeMar DeRozan or Zach LaVine be on the move?
The Kings’ current core — including Domantas Sabonis, Keegan Murray, Malik Monk, and Keon Ellis — remains intact for now, but some reshuffling could be in store.