As it stands right now, the Sacramento Kings have a total of 16 players on their roster. That's 13 players on standard NBA contracts with an additional three on two-way contracts. If you're checking my math, you'll notice that means the Kings have two more main roster spots to fill.
Don't expect that to change anytime soon. The Kings are right up against the first penalty apron with their current payroll. If they sign anyone else, the penalties will be stiff and derail the rebuild. For now, it makes more sense to run with the roster they currently have.
If you take a step back and look at the depth chart, Sacramento actually has the firepower to field a solid team this season. They're not winning a title or anything, but it is a huge step forward from where the Kings were even a season ago. If nothing else, it should be a fun season of basketball in Sactown.
Kings' Point Guards
- Starter: Darius Acuff Jr.
- Backup: Malik Monk
- Reserve: Adam Flagler (Two-Way)
- Reserve: Isaiah Stevens (Two-Way)
There's a lot of pressure on Acuff to deliver as a rookie starter. He needs to get up to NBA speed quickly and develop as soon as possible. There's backup in Monk, but he's a better shooting guard than a point guard. The Kings would be smart to give both Flagler and Stevens increased minutes.
Kings' Shooting Guards
- Starter: Zach LaVine
- Backup: Nique Clifford
- Reserve: Emanuel Sharp
- Reserve: Malik Monk
Sacramento has no shortage of shooting guards. Since it looks like LaVine isn't going anywhere, the Kings should begin the season with him as the starter. If that doesn't work out, bench him and go with Clifford and Sharp. They still have Monk, but his role is likely to be reduced even further this season.
Kings' Small Forwards
- Starter: Keegan Murray
- Backup: Daeqwon Plowden
- Reserve: Nique Clifford
- Reserve: De'Andre Hunter
Murray is not the focal player the Kings need him to be. Put him in as the main small forward, take some of the pressure off of him, and let him play. Plowden and Clifford will be excellent backups. Sacramento should keep Hunter for now, but he's not a long-term investment.
Kings' Power Forwards
- Starter: Domantas Sabonis
- Backup: Precious Achiuwa
- Reserve: Jonathan Mogbo (Two-Way)
- Reserve: Alex Karaban
- Reserve: De'Andre Hunter
The Kings need to put Sabonis to work as a power forward and run double-big lineups. That size could be a game-changer for them. After that, they have a solid list of players to use at the four. Mogbo needs to get minutes, as does Karaban. Hunter is the one who should be riding the pine.
Kings' Centers
- Starter: Maxime Raynaud
- Backup: Dylan Cardwell
- Reserve: Domantas Sabonis
- Reserve: Precious Achiuwa
Raynaud is last season's breakout rookie star for the Kings. Keep that train rolling and start him at the five. Cardwell also broke out in a big way and is Raynaud's backup. Period. Sabonis and Achiwa will make great reserves. Plus, they could give Mogbo some minutes at center, as well.
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