Malachi Richardson: Happy Birthday to the Sacramento King
By Tyler Watts
Malachi Richardson is celebrating his birthday on Jan. 5. Today, we wish him a happy birthday and discuss his future outlooks.
Malachi Richardson is celebrating his 22nd birthday on Jan. 5. Happy day and we hope it is a great year! Birthdays always bring a time for reflection, so I figured along that theme we would examine where Richardson sits with the Sacramento Kings. Let us consider his rest of the season outlook and dive into where he fits long-term. First, here is a highlight video of Malachi Richardson’s play from last season for your enjoyment.
Rest of season
The Kings have a bit of a crowded wing situation but expect the team to find more minutes for Richardson as the season progresses. As Sacramento slips from contention, that should mean more Richardson and rookie Justin Jackson. That takes time away from Garrett Temple and Vince Carter. I wrote my holiday wish that the Kings play Richardson more here and I stand by all the reasons outlined in the piece. Do not let me down Coach Joerger.
Related Story: Malachi Richardson's 2016-2017 season report card
Long-term outlook
Richardson’s long-term outlook depends a lot of what we see this year and next. Right now, he has played 444 total NBA minutes or roughly what LeBron plays in 12 games. That sample size alone makes it difficult to draw any useable clues. If Richardson continues not to play, you have to believe the Kings do not value him as a piece moving forward. That means at the end of his rookie contract (if not before), he will be playing elsewhere. Richardson has youth and potential, but now is the time to turn it into reality.
Final Thoughts
Happy 22nd Birthday Malachi Richardson! Hopefully, it is an awesome day and a fantastic year for the young King. Give Malachi a birthday shout out on Twitter @KingMali23.
Next: Give Skal Labissiere starter's minutes
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