After the success of Dylan Cardwell, the Sacramento Kings seem to be taking a harder look at the young stars currently on their roster. That includes Devin Carter, who had been all but forgotten until recently. Now, the Kings are giving him time and confidence, and his game is growing.
Even though he's only in his second NBA season, Carter's professional career hasn't been great so far. The Kings drafted him, but didn't put much effort into his development. Then, he seemed to be getting lost in the shuffle during the course of the current season with everything else going on.
That all seemed to change just before the trade deadline. Suddenly, he's off the bench and getting regular minutes. That includes getting the first NBA start of his career in the Kings' final game before the All-Star break. Even better, his performance has improved drastically.
He's scored in the double digits for the last four games, as well as picking up consistent numbers of assists, rebounds, steals, and blocks. Carter is making his presence known and finding a rhythm with other young members of the Kings' roster. Still, Sacramento's sudden change of heart seems odd.
Devin Carter is becoming the player they drafted
A big part of Scott Perry's mandate is to make the team more youthful and versatile. They're looking for players who might excel at one aspect of the game, but can also deliver reliably in other ways. Even if you're a brilliant three-point shooter, you still have to be an effective defender.
This push has benefited young players on the roster like Devin Carter. He has the potential to be a difference maker at both ends of the court, something he's actually been getting the opportunity to show off lately. There is at least one more factor at play, though.
The Kings have done incredibly well with their rookie class this season, particularly Dylan Cardwell. He went from undrafted to a full contract in a matter of months. Cardwell's success has pushed the Kings to look harder at the players they already have on the roster and what they bring to the table.
Not only has this benefited Carter, but it's also helped out guys like Daeqwon Plowden, who have been stuck in the G League for years and just need a chance to prove themselves. It's important to the Kings' rebuild process that they don't overlook talent already in their midst.