Fans and pundits alike have heavily criticized the Kings for their brutal offseason. A lack of significant movement on any front has left few people with even a remotely positive outlook for Sacramento's team this season.
On the upside, the Kings didn't have the worst offseason by far. That would be the Los Angeles Clippers.
The Clippers organization has been rocked by allegations surrounding star Kawhi Leonard. The team has been accused of circumventing the salary cap to pay Leonard more money under the table for a "no-show" job at a company affiliated with the team's owner.
The investigation is ongoing but could lead to stiff penalties from the league. That could include negating Leonard's contract, which might lead to him being blackballed, and a significant loss of draft picks.
And the Kings get to take them on in the pre-season
Clippers versus Kings will be interesting
On October 15, the Clippers will be heading to Golden 1 Center to take on the Kings in both team's third preseason match. What state the Clippers are in will be a focal point, to say the least.
It's likely the Clippers will keep Leonard off the court until the investigation is finished and penalties are assessed. Having him on the court would be a distraction for the rest of the team.
Leonard's presence has been so sporadic for the Clippers that him not being there shouldn't be a big deal. Still, having this massive issue looming over them will keep the team from playing at 100%. This is something the Kings can and should take advantage of.
A discombobulated Clippers' roster worn down by a scandal-riddled summer presents an opportunity for the Kings to pick up a win and build some confidence going into the regular season. The only question is if the Kings can take advantage of it.