Sometimes, people say things without actually saying them. In these cases, actions speak louder than words and the Kings are practically screaming in Keegan Murray's face.
Murray is a strong power forward who is known for three-point shooting, rebounding, and his exceptional growth as a defender. Like any young athlete, he has some inconsistencies in his game, particularly his play-making. As he matures, Murray will become a top tier athlete.
Unfortunately, Keegan might not get there with the Kings. They keep bringing in players who take his shots and spots, something that has gotten worse in the offseason.
Keegan Murray is fighting for time
For the Kings, it keeps coming back to their unbalanced roster. They have a team loaded with shoot-first players, primarily at the guard position but also in other roles.
The biggest thing Murray has offered to the Kings so far is his shot making, many coming from beyond the three-point line. But the Kings keep bringing in more shooters.
What the Kings are saying to Murray, hopefully unintentionally, is that his role is at least somewhat in jeopardy. More shooters on the court means less shots for everyone as well as a fight for minutes. Keegan Murray will get caught up in that.
The Kings need to fix this
Part of the solution is on Keegan Murray. If he comes out aggressive on defense this season and carves a new place for himself on the roster, he secures his spot.
The bigger part of the solution is on the Kings. The front office are the decision makers who overloaded the roster and put themselves in this position. If Keegan Murray loses confidence in the organization, that's on them.
Whether the Kings meant to or not, their moves have minimized Keegan's place on the roster. That says so much more about how they view him than they could have meant.