3 Ways Chris Duarte improves the Kings chances in 2023-24

2. Wing Versatility and Defensive Length

Another advantage of the franchise taking a flier on the young former lottery pick is what he can potentially offer defensively for the Kings. In an area where the Kings struggled mightily last season as a bottom-ten defense in the league, Duarte offers the ability to guard several positions with his length and size as a more oversized guard at 6’6″. In Duarte’s rookie season, he averaged a steal per game for the Pacers and has amassed 81 in his career.

Along with that versatility, Duarte’s ability to off of from several different types of players and situations will allow him to adapt smoothly to Sacramento’s style of play. Duarte’s experience as a starter and role player off the bench will prove an asset as the season wanes on, injuries pile up, and the rotation changes throughout the season. He’s not just a body on the court either, as he can be a productive player in different ways for Sacramento.