Much of the conversation around the Sacramento Kings this offseason has focused on the possibility of them selling off assets. However, the team might unexpectedly choose a different route.
Despite finishing the season 40-42 and falling to the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA Play-In Tournament, which doesn’t suggest a strong foundation to build upon, the Kings may not be looking to tear things down—especially following the trade of former franchise point guard De’Aaron Fox.
In fact, Fox’s departure is reportedly prompting Sacramento to explore all their options this offseason. According to recent trade rumors, the Kings could be looking to buy, aiming to find a long-term replacement at point guard.
According to Grant Afseth, the Sacramento Kings are expected to target two star point guards to fill the void left at the position. Darius Garland of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Trae Young of the Atlanta Hawks are the primary names to watch.
Garland is coming off one of his strongest seasons as a professional. The Cavaliers guard posted averages of 20.6 points, 6.7 assists, and 1.2 steals per game, while shooting an efficient 47.2% from the field and 40.1% from three-point range.
Despite Garland’s strong performance, the Cavaliers were eliminated by the Indiana Pacers in the second round of the NBA Playoffs—a result that has opened the door for potential changes to Cleveland’s current roster core.
Meanwhile, Trae Young turned in another productive season, delivering the type of numbers fans have come to expect. The Hawks guard averaged a double-double with 24.2 points and 11.6 assists per game.
However, Young struggled with efficiency throughout the season, shooting just 41.1% from the field and 34.0% from three-point range.
Both Garland and Young would be viable long-term replacements for De’Aaron Fox in Sacramento. Still, questions would remain about how far the team could ultimately go with either guard leading the way.