The 2023 NBA Draft is one week away, so we are starting to picture what prospects will land where. This 2023 draft class is one of the most talented we have seen in a while, as some first-round talent will fall to the second round. The Sacramento Kings hold three draft picks this year, barring any trades: the 24th, the 38th, and the 54th.
The Sacramento Kings might get a game-changer with the 24th overall pick, but rarely does a game-changer fall to the second round. The Kings must address two needs in the draft: wing depth and big man depth. Whether they go for a wing in the first round and a big man in the second or vice versa will depend on what prospects are available.
Here are four game-changing forwards the Kings need to target with the 38th pick:
Sidy Cissoko, G League Ignite
19-year-old forward Sidy Cissoko is one of the youngest prospects in this class. Cissoko plays high intensity on the defensive end but has struggled to find consistency on offense. In his lone season for G League Ignite, the French forward averaged 12.8 points, 3.5 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.0 blocks per game.
Sidy Cissoko is an impressive on-ball defender with a knack for getting steals and blocks. He is 6’8″ with a 6’10” wingspan, providing good size that will translate to the NBA. While Cissoko occasionally gets beat off the dribble, he has shown his ability to lock up ball handlers and play impressive off-ball defense.
Sidy Cissoko lacks a consistent jump shot but makes up for it with other aspects of his game. Playing next to projected top-three pick Scoot Henderson, Cissoko did not always have the ball in his hands to showcase his skills. He is impressive at getting to the basket and finishing with force and is wise about making the right pass.
While Sidy Cissoko’s draft stock has fluctuated between the first and second rounds, The Ringer suggests he will fall to the 37th pick in their recent mock draft. Cissoko is a first-round talent, so the Sacramento Kings grabbing him at pick 38 would be a steal.