The Sacramento Kings continue to pull players out of retirement, even if only temporarily. The California franchise has given a chance to Elfrid Payton, who has not played since April 2025 when he was with the Charlotte Hornets. The guard spent the previous season with the Austin Spurs of the G League, and now he will battle for a spot on the Kings’ roster ahead of training camp.
At 32, Payton has long since seen his best days behind him. Notably due to the lingering physical issues that have always plagued him. It’s not the first time Payton has bounced from a lower league to the NBA, having spent time in the Puerto Rico league and the G League between 2022 and 2024 before returning with the New Orleans Pelicans.
There are still no details about the contract type he signs with the Kings, though it’s reasonable to think it will be non-guaranteed and probably temporary. Payton has averaged 9.8 points and 6.4 assists over nine NBA seasons.
