The Sacramento Kings missed the playoffs for the second year in a row and once again ended up in the draft lottery. Unfortunately for them, their first-round pick was top-12 protected, and since it landed at No. 13, it was transferred to the Atlanta Hawks.
As a result, Sacramento won’t have a first-round selection in this year’s draft, but they do hold the 42nd overall pick, where they could still uncover a valuable contributor.
One pressing need on the Kings’ roster is at point guard, and according to Bleacher Report’s Grant Hughes, the team may look to address that issue in the draft.
Hughes stated that Sacramento’s primary draft goal in 2025 should be to “find a point guard.” While the Kings would ideally land a capable floor general in the second round, they may still need to explore the trade market or free agency to secure a starter.
“Sacramento probably won’t find a top-tier option at No. 42, but the need for a point guard this offseason is obvious,” Hughes wrote. “In a perfect scenario, they’d acquire one via a trade involving Zach LaVine, Domantas Sabonis, or DeMar DeRozan. Realistically, though, they might have to settle for a free agent willing to sign for the non-taxpayer mid-level exception.”
New general manager Scott Perry acknowledged the team’s need for a point guard during his introductory press conference and emphasized that the front office is committed to finding one this offseason, no matter the method.
Although securing a dependable starting point guard is no easy task, the Kings have already been connected to veteran free agent Tyus Jones and NBA champion Jrue Holiday of the Boston Celtics, indicating their intent to make a significant move.
That said, prospects such as Ryan Nembhard, Kam Jones, and Javon Small are expected to still be on the board at pick No. 42. Each is a capable point guard who could provide valuable contributions in the right system and role.