5 players the Sacramento Kings need to step up in 2022-23
By Ryan Brennan
1. Harrison Barnes, Small Forward
2021-22 Stats: 16.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 0.7 steals, 0.2 blocks (77 games)
Projected Depth Chart: Starting SF
What We Need From Him: Consistency, Three-Point Shooting, Defense, Hustle Plays, Experience
Harrison Barnes has been one of the most consistent and productive players not talked about on a daily basis. He doesn’t get the media attention or the accolades, but he’s appreciated within the fanbase for what he brings on a night-to-night basis.
While he mostly played power forward the past three seasons, Barnes is slated to be the team’s starting small forward this year — a position he’ll be much more comfortable in. It’ll not only give him more space on the offensive side of the ball, but he’ll be more effective on defense.
The 30-year-old shot nearly 40% from long range last year, making 1.8 three pointers per game. The Kings need that level of shooting from deep, especially considering they ranked 24th in the league in 2021-22 at just 34%.
Still, some people believe this could be a regression year for Barnes and others are already linking him to trade rumors. With an $18.3 million salary this year, he’s going to need to perform well if he wants to stay in Sacramento.
Nonetheless, Barnes is committed to the team and has his sights on helping the Kings end their playoff drought. They’ll need him at his best, but I think he’ll bring it when called upon.