Kofi Inkoom
The Sacramento Kings undeniably regressed during the 2023-24 season and are now eyeing significant roster changes for next season.
The Kings finished this season with a 46-36 record, two wins fewer than last season, and failed to progress beyond the play-in tournament, falling short to the Pelicans despite beating the Warriors in the first round of the play-in. So, they are likely to revamp their roster.
According Michael Scotto of HoopsHype “rival NBA executives who spoke with HoopsHype expect Kevin Huerter to be available again on the trade market this summer along with forward Harrison Barnes as the Sacramento Kings look to upgrade their roster in the vaunted Western Conference.”
The Kings boast a strong core trio in De’Aaron Fox, Domantas Sabonis, and the promising 23-year-old Keegan Murray. However, finding the right supporting cast for this trio will be crucial this summer.
Malik Monk is expected to be a highly coveted role player in free agency, and retaining him may come at a high price for the Kings.
To create cap space for Monk and possibly another role player, the Kings might trade Huerter or Barnes to a team with cap room, or they could use the combined salaries of Huerter and Barnes ($34.8 million) to trade for a star player.
The pair averaged 22.2 points per game last season, mostly as starters. However, Keon Ellis appeared to be a better fit at shooting guard compared to Huerter, particularly on the defensive end, and may take over his role in the starting lineup.
Furthermore, the Kings require a center who can protect the rim, making it likely that both Barnes and Huerter could find themselves on different teams next season.
Barnes, who helped the Golden State Warriors win the championship in 2015, has averaged 14.0 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 1.8 assists during his time with the Warriors, Dallas Mavericks, and now the Kings. He joined the Kings in a trade from the Mavericks in 2019.
Huerter began his NBA career with the Hawks and has averaged 11.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists while playing for both Atlanta and now the Kings. He moved to Sacramento in a trade from Atlanta in June 2022.