Kings news: SL almost over, Sabonis injury, Pacers and Barnes
By Logan Struck
The NBA world begins to slow down as the league enters a weird phase between Summer League and preseason. The Sacramento Kings could potentially have a busy next couple of weeks, as they have two standard roster spots left and one two-way. With three spots to fill, Kings fans await what players will be added to the already deep roster.
While we all wait to hear what the Kings will do to fill out the roster, there are a few headlines for Sacramento Kings fans to enjoy:
The Sacramento Kings’ Summer League is almost over
While the Kings have been on a Summer League skid recently, their time in Las Vegas is almost finished. After their last “regular season” Summer League game tonight, the Kings will play a consolation game since they are out of the playoff picture.
The Kings have a 1-2 Las Vegas Summer League record, mainly due to a Neemias Queta injury and Keegan Murray’s absence. Some young guys have stepped up, especially Jordan Ford, Colby Jones, and Keon Ellis. While Colby Jones signed his rookie deal and Keon Ellis agreed to a two-way contract, Jordan Ford awaits his future on the Kings, as most fans believe he has earned a spot on the roster.
With two games left, many players still have an opportunity to showcase their skills, as Mike Daum’s outstanding performance in Tuesday night’s loss is a perfect example.
Domantas Sabonis follows strict rehab; Out for FIBA World Cup
While there has been drama over a potential Domantas Sabonis thumb surgery recently, reports ultimately suggest the All-Star big man did not have surgery. Sacramento Kings insider, James Ham, reported on the truth about Sabonis (via @James_HamNBA | Twitter):
"“According to a league source, Kings center Domantas Sabonis did not have surgery on the avulsion fracture in his right thumb, as reported overseas. He continues to follow a strict rehab protocol and was unable to play for the Lithuanian national team this summer.”"
While the reports from insiders and Lithuania’s national team head coach were conflicting, we have all the reasons to believe that Sabonis did not undergo surgery and is following a strict rehab to be ready for next season instead. Sabonis will remain out for the 2023 FIBA World this summer.
Indiana Pacers had an interest in Kings forward Harrison Barnes
While Harrison Barnes was an unrestricted free agent this off-season, he was expected to leave the Sacramento Kings and sign elsewhere. Ultimately, Barnes returned to Sacramento on a three-year / $54 million deal.
While Barnes remains a King, the Indiana Pacers reportedly were interested in the veteran forward and actively pursuing him. While there were rumors of the Pacers having an interest in Barnes back before the start of free agency, these recent reports are backing up those rumors.
The Pacers also explored Tobias Harris and O.G. Anunoby but ultimately signed Bruce Brown to a two-year / $45 million contract.
While many fans have had mixed feelings about bringing back Harrison Barnes, Sacramento is returning all five starters from a 2022-23 team that had an all-time best offense. Harrison Barnes is valuable to the Kings and should have another productive year.
