The Sacramento Kings are trying to build a true contender after getting eliminated in the NBA Play-In Tournament this past season. Sacramento's inability to find consistency over the years has been a result of questionable roster decisions. The Kings' have uncertainty at the moment as the 2025-26 season draws near.
Sacramento has made some respectable moves this summer. However, this Kings roster doesn't look like it is built to compete for a championship anytime soon. The team's offseason has two specific topics that need to be addressed.
The Keegan Murray situation
Murray, a 25-year-old, has displayed signs of potential in his NBA career. He will make over $11 million in 2025-26 before entering restricted free agency next offseason. John Hollinger of The Athletic believes Murray's next contract extension could be worth around $25 million over four years. If Sacramento signs him to that type of deal, however, their luxury tax situation will become even more uncertain.
Sacramento has some cap space at the moment, but their ability to spend in free agency will become especially limited if Murray lands a $25 million deal. It will be interesting to see if Murray remains in the Kings' long-term plans.
Murray has spent three seasons in Sacramento. He's a respectable defender and an up-and-coming offensive player. Overall, he has averaged 13.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.4 assists and 0.9 steals per outing across 233 total games played at the NBA level.
The Kings' potential decision to keep Murray could lead to financial issues down the road, but at least he is on the roster. Their next question mark centers around a player who is currently with another team.
A trade Sacramento has yet to make
Golden State Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga has been mentioned as a trade candidate over the past year. The Kings have been linked to the forward in recent months. A trade has yet to come to fruition. At this point, Sacramento may not be able to get anything completed for the 2025-26 campaign.
Domantas Sabonis is a star and the Kings have other quality veterans, but Kuminga is a player the Kings could potentially build around for years to come. He is only 22 years old and the Kings could negotiate a contract extension after acquiring him.
Sure, Sacramento would need to figure things out from a financial standpoint. Murray's future contract situation is another element to consider. Bringing Kuminga in, though, could help the Kings reach the next level as a franchise.