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Sacramento Kings: Harrison Barnes Declines Option, Becomes Free Agent

By John Kelly

SACRAMENTO, CA - APRIL 7: Harrison Barnes #40 of the Sacramento Kings greets fans priro to the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on April 7, 2019 at Golden 1 Center 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 2019 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)
SACRAMENTO, CA - APRIL 7: Harrison Barnes #40 of the Sacramento Kings greets fans priro to the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on April 7, 2019 at Golden 1 Center 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 2019 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images) /
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In a surprising move, Harrison Barnes opts out of his contract with the Sacramento Kings to become an unrestricted free agent.

When the Sacramento Kings were in search of solving their glaring hole at small forward last season, Vlade Divac traded Justin Jackson and Zach Randolph to the Dallas Mavericks for Harrison Barnes.

In the short time Barnes spent with the Kings, he proved he could be the long-term wing for the team. The general opinion was Harrison would take the $25 million on his player option to remain on the team next season. But instead, he now is a free agent looking for a long-term deal.

What Were Barnes’ Motives For Opting Out?

While Harrison’s numbers dipped while adjusting to the Kings, he still played well considering the role he had on the team.

For Barnes, this move was definitely motivated for long term security. He might also be interested to see what other options he has out there if available. Money and a chance at getting another title could lure him away.

How The Kings Can Keep Barnes?

Well, we know that a one-year deal worth $25 million was not enough to lure Barnes to stay in Sacramento. So what is?

Now Vlade Divac must find out what Barnes’ goals are for his future. It could be that Barnes wants a bigger role compared to the one he had last season? Or maybe he is looking for a club that can compete for a title right away? Also, it could be that Barnes wants more financial security for him and his family?

Now Divac must sit down and figure out what the Kings need from Barnes. Then align it with Barnes to see if the pair are a good fit.

The Kings Must Keep Barnes

If the Kings want to keep Barnes on their squad, they need to do it quickly. It is simple to see that Barnes makes the Kings a better team.  Retaining Harrison allows Divac to concentrate on other areas that the Kings need to address.

With the draft coming this week, it would be nice to know if Divac needs to find a small forward.

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A Royal Pain will keep you informed as information becomes available. No official announcement from the Kings as of yet. 

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