Sacramento Kings trade grade: 3 team deal with Utah and Cleveland
By Tyler Watts
![SACRAMENTO, CA - MARCH 9: Iman Shumpert #4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on during the game against the Sacramento Kings on March 9, 2016 at Sleep Train Arena in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2016 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images) SACRAMENTO, CA - MARCH 9: Iman Shumpert #4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers looks on during the game against the Sacramento Kings on March 9, 2016 at Sleep Train Arena in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2016 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/f838f91a784aefdf5acc676fe58c91b8d6d1ea980bdb4fbca5cf6bee5228cc9e.jpg)
Grade and final thoughts
The Sacramento Kings traded George Hill for Iman Shumpert, Joe Johnson (no value if he is bought out), a 2020 second round pick and cash.
Trade Grade: C+
Overall, the Kings opened up value playing time for what they hope is their star player in five years’ time and got back a rotation piece for next season and a second-round pick. The trade left a little to be desired given Hill’s on-court ability, but ultimately it was the right move for a rebuilding franchise.
I wish the Kings would have traded away a few other veterans and went all in on playing their young talent. Unfortunately, that was not the case. Hopefully, the veterans continue to provide leadership and mentoring to the rookies, but see less playing time in the games. I am not sure Coach Joerger will back me on this philosophy, though. Stay tuned to find out.
A Royal Pain has a unique take on the Sacramento Kings this season. Our team prides itself on writing content and opinions that fans crave, but cannot find anywhere else. Please check back with us frequently to never miss an article. Thank you for reading.