Apr 6, 2014; Sacramento, CA, USA; Sacramento Kings forward Reggie Evans (30) looks towards a referee after the ball went out of bounds against the Dallas Mavericks in the third quarter at Sleep Train Arena. The Mavericks defeated the Kings 93-91. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Acquired in the trade that sent Marcus Thornton to the Brooklyn Nets, Reggie Evans was thought to be nothing more than a throw-in for Sacramento but the veteran power forward quickly emerged on the scene as a formidable talent. No, the minutes weren’t over the top and Evans’ play isn’t going to find itself leading the highlights on SportsCenter, but the well-traveled ‘big man’ found a niche with the Kings and finished out the season on a solid note.
Below are his 2013-14 season grades.
Bryant:
Much like Acy, Evans’ value far exceeded his actual basketball skills. He’s the perfect veteran fit for this roster, and he did wonders playing alongside Cousins. Hopefully if he stays past next season, he’s the fourth or fifth big man on the roster, and not the starting power forward.
Grade: B
Scott:
Where ever Reggie Evans falls on your grading scale, he probably earns the same mark every season. Evans is what he is and brings the same skills to the table every game. He’s a hard-nosed, pesky defender who is one of the best rebounders in the NBA.
After being acquired from Brooklyn, Evans worked his way into the starting lineup, as Coach Michael Malone looked for a shot of energy in a lethargic unit. Evans definitely was that. In addition to the aforementioned skills that Evans is known for, the power forward showed adequate skill in the post, surprisingly with his off-hand (left) half-hooks.
Evans is a great guy to have around a young Kings roster. After going from a playoff team to a bottom feeder, he didn’t complain. Instead he spoke of his love for the game and the opportunity he was given. He’s a quality example for younger players and a strong locker room presence. His small contract for next year makes him a nice piece for the Kings or an easy-to-move figure in another trade.
Grade: B-
Bryan:
The prototypical player you hate if he’s not on your team, but love if he is, Evans’ gritty style of play quickly rubbed off on the Kingdom. Evans, outside of rebounding, makes his money doing the little things but he does them rather well and has carved out a role in the NBA thanks to this (and his hard nosed game). A fine bench piece, Evans isn’t somebody you want to afford a ton of minutes but he certainly has done enough to justify a roster spot going into the 2014-15 season. As for his 2013-14 season with the Kings, he did what he does and did it well.
Grade: B