There's no doubt that the Sacramento Kings' rebuild started with an incredibly successful 2025 NBA Draft. The Kings used their two picks well, and made a smart call on an undrafted player. With more picks and a deep talent pool in 2026, Scott Perry has the chance to prove 2025 wasn't just a fluke.
If Sactown fans are being honest, the Kings track record when it comes to drafting players is spotty at best. Frankly, that might be a little generous, particularly if you take a good look at 2018. Passing up Luka Doncic, Jalen Brunson, and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander for Marvin Bagley III? Yikes.
That's the past, and the current Kings' front office has already done a better job. The 2025 draft was one of Perry's first big acts as the new general manager in Sacramento. It's safe to say that he did a good job when you consider the three rookies he picked up were rare bright spots last season.
After drafting Nique Clifford in the first round and Maxime Raynaud in the second, Perry went on to sign Dylan Cardwell as an undrafted player. All three of them did well last season, stepping up for multiple injured veterans in a big way. Now, it's time to see if Perry can pull off another great draft.
The 2026 draft will be big for Perry and the Kings
Some sort of progress in 2026-2027 will be important for the Kings as well as the continued employment of both Perry and current head coach Doug Christie. Many fans are already frustrated with Christie, but are still hoping that a season with less injuries will give him a chance to shine.
For Perry, it starts with the 2026 draft. He has one first round pick to work with as well as two second round picks. There are reports that the Kings are trying to make pre-draft trades that would give them more picks, preferably in the first round. If that deal also moves an expensive contract, great.
The 2025 rookie trio has been huge for the Kings. This roster still needs more great rookies to build around. That means expectations are high for Perry to repeat his 2025 success in 2026. It should be like shooting fish in a barrel considering how many incredible players are in this year's draft class.
It doesn't mean the pressure is off. Sactown fans are watching this draft closely, and want players who are going to meet or exceed the the caliber of Perry's 2025 selections. Given the importance of this draft to the rebuild and the Kings' future success, failure is not an option.
Add us as a preferred source on Google