Being a team owner of any sports franchise comes with varying degrees of personal responsibility. Some owners are more involved in the day-to-day operations of the team than others.
As part of the front office, owners are expected to play a role in the franchise's operation. Someone has to outrank positions like general manager to keep them in check.
That also means sharing the blame when things don't work out. When a team owner lets their personal opinion outweigh the recommendations of experienced staff and leaders, things can go really wrong. Welcome to the core of Sacramento's problem.
The Kings' are Vivek Ranadive's vision
Vivek Ranadive is part owner of the Sacramento Kings. He co-owns the team with a larger group while also filling the role of chairman of the franchise.
Ranadive is definitely hands on. He has reputedly been heavily involved in most team decisions, from filling major positions all the way down to dealing directly with players. Vivek's vision for the team is the primary one, likely leading to many of issues plaguing the franchise.
As an exceptionally involved owner, Ranadive's influence has been directly related to the ongoing atmosphere of instability behind the scenes. This has made it nearly impossible for the Kings to find solid footing and built a strong team.
Ranadive needs to take a step back
It's been said that nothing happens on the Kings without Vivek's approval. Reputedly, former general manager Monte McNair was the one who pushed to fire former head coach Mike Brown. But it was with Ranadive's approval and support.
The instability and imbalance in the Kings' roster has been a problems for a long time. While it's a good thing that Ranadive cares, his influence and decision making has exacerbated that problem.
Yes, Sacramento needs to do a complete rebuild that starts in the front office and ends on the court. But that won't work unless Vivek Ranadive is willing to take a step back and let his people do what they do best.
Until then, all of Sacramento's failures end on his desk.