The 10 Best trades in Sacramento Kings history

2. Mitch Richmond

After moving from Kansas City to Sacramento, the Kings did not have much in terms of “star power.” Sure, they had franchise studs like Reggie Theus or Wayman Tisdale, and they also had young talents such as Otis Thorpe and Kenny Smith. As impressive and fun as those players were, however, the term “star” has a different connotation. Mitch Richmond, on the other hand, was that guy.

After three stellar seasons with the Golden State, two of which, as a part of the exciting group known as Run TMC, the Warriors traded Richmond along with Les Jepsen in exchange for rookie Billy Owens. Owens was projected to be an All-Star caliber player, just not in Sacramento, as he spent his time before the trade holding out due to contract negotiations.

Owens would have a fine career, including three solid years in Golden Stats, but Richmond would take the leap into stardom with the Kings. Averaging 23.3 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 4.1 assists over 517 games, Richmond would earn six-straight All-Star bids from 1992-1998,

While the Kings were not particularly competitive during his time with the team, they did reach the postseason in 1996, though they would be swiftly knocked out by the Seattle Supersonics.

Richmond was a talented player and a true star, certainly deserving of the love the city has given him over the years. Of all that he has done for the Kings however, it was his exit that led to the King’s top run since the days of Otis Birdsong.