After a painfully challenging season, the Draft has given the Sacramento Kings a reason to regain at least a shred of optimism. The selection of Darius Acuff, a guard with immense offensive talent, provides the Californians with a new young asset full of potential to mold into the franchise’s future face, a mission that seems to be the central objective of the 26-27 season. And therefore, the roster will be built around that.
Such is the case that, according to Marc Stein and Jake Fischer in The Stein Line, Sacramento is looking for veteran guards who can serve as mentors for the young rookie, specifically citing Russell Westbrook and Victor Oladipo as possible options. And while both are currently at different points in their careers, they share the attribute that the Kings are prioritizing now: extensive NBA experience.
Westbrook is, in fact, the second active player with the most games played, only surpassed by LeBron James, and is preparing for what will be his 19th season in the league. The guard came from playing in Sacramento last season, and the franchise was pleased with his role both on and off the court, although it isn’t clear whether his wish is to remain with a non-contending team to serve as a mentor or if he will seek a destination with higher competitive aims.
Oladipo, for his part, has not played in the NBA since 2023, although he has not hidden his desire to return. In fact, in recent months he has undertaken various training sessions for several teams to demonstrate his current level, including one with the Kings themselves during the latest Summer League in Las Vegas. And while his play doesn’t seem to convince anyone yet, perhaps his veteran role could eventually spark Sacramento’s interest.
The Kings still have two open spots on their roster, especially thin at the point guard position, where Acuff is expected to take the reins from day one, but they also need another option there, not just for mentoring purposes.
