NBA Mock Draft 1.0: Kings get coveted prospect, Jazz make a surprise selection
By Logan Struck
![Victor Wembanyama. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Peltier-USA TODAY Sports Victor Wembanyama. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Peltier-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/a04de223d9e7793885bd35677efaa208e449c833162e8a546462b085d1f8b3c1.jpg)
24. Sacramento Kings: Kris Murray, PF, Iowa
The Sacramento Kings can draft the player they hoped would fall to the 24th pick. Out of the University of Iowa, NBA-ready forward Kris Murray. After a breakout Junior season, Murray’s draft stock sky-rocketed. Averaging 20.2 points, 7.2 rebounds, 1.2 blocks, and 1.0 steals per game, Murray showed he will have an immediate impact on whatever team he falls to.
After 16 long years without a playoff appearance, the Sacramento Kings are finally ready to win. The Western Conference, outside of the Denver Nuggets, is collapsing, and it is the Kings opportunity to come out on top. The Kings can do this by drafting Kris, who is ready to contribute starting day one.
The 6’8″ forward is a versatile two-way player who is deadly from long range but can still score from all three levels. Whether Murray’s role on the Kings will be 3-and-D or something else, he can impact the game in whatever way.
Besides being a great prospect, Kris Murray is a Kings fan favorite. Joining his twin brother, Keegan, in Sacramento would be a fun reunion. While his offense is not as impactful as Keegan’s, his defense makes up for it. Kris is a very versatile defender, as he can practically guard every position and uses his 7’0″ wingspan to be an impressive shot blocker.
Kris Murray’s two-way versatility and rebounding ability make him the perfect prospect for the Sacramento Kings.