Since the end of the 2025-2026 season, Precious Achiuwa has been open about his desire to return to the Sacramento Kings in 2026-2027. It appears the feeling is mutual as general manager Scott Perry would also like the veteran back on the team. Now, all the pieces have to fall into place.
A few games into this season, the Kings realized they were having some big problems on defense. To be honest, everyone realized that. Most people called it out as a major problem for Sacramento long before the first game. Frankly, it's been an issue for years, even during the so-called Beam Team Era.
The difference this time was that the Kings actually tried to do something about it. They signed Achiuwa, a player well-known for his defensive prowess, to bring some immediate help on that end of the court. It took some time and other changes to the lines, but he made a big difference.
By partnering Achiuwa the rookie trio of Maxime Raynaud, Dylan Cardwell, and Nique Clifford, Sacramento actually started to build a real defensive identity by the last quarter of the season. It was too late to matter in 2025-2026, but it will be a great place to start from next season.
The rebuilding Kings need Achiuwa in the long-term
Achiuwa's contract was only for one season, meaning he is currently a free agent. He has made it clear that he wants to remain a Sacramento King for the foreseeable future. Fortunately for him, Perry feels the same way and has said there is mutual interest in making that happen.
What Achiuwa brings to the table is incredibly important. He's been in the league long enough to be considered a veteran, and will play a role in developing the rookies and sophomores. At the same time, he's only 26-years-old and has a lot of great basketball left to play in his career.
As a member of the Kings' resurging frontcourt, his versatility, athleticism, and professionalism make him a key to the rebuild. This is someone who can lead by example, whether he's a starter or playing off the bench. Achiuwa will do what's necessary to make the team better as a whole.
The Kings need to sort out a few things, particularly the respective statuses of Zach LaVine and Domantas Sabonis, before they can make an offer to Achiuwa. When Perry does, he would be smart to get Achiuwa on the books for at least three seasons. That consistency will be important.
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