With training camp beginning soon for the Sacramento Kings, the front office is putting the finishing touches on this year's roster. They recently signed veteran point guard Elfrid Payton to a non-guaranteed training camp contract to see how he fits. But if you really look at it, he could work out.
Payton was drafted 10th overall by the 76ers in 2014, then traded to the Magic that night for Dario Saric. After four seasons in Orlando, Payton spent most of his time bouncing between various NBA, G League, and Puerto Rican teams. His second-longest stint was two seasons with the Knicks.
What makes him appealing is his role as a traditional floor general. He has excellent court vision, high assist numbers, and controls the pace of the game. On top of that, Payton is a superb defender who cuts off lanes and collects steals. Plus, Payton gets an impressive number of rebounds for a guard.
The problem is his scoring. He will almost always pass up a shot to set up a teammate, which isn't inherently a bad thing. But Payton is weak from the perimeter and has no mid-range jumpshot. If he scores, it's at the rim. That can impact floor spacing, and turn off prospective teams.
Why Payton could work on the Kings
It's no surprise Sacramento is taking a look at Payton. Scott Perry was in the front offices of both Orlando and New York, playing a major role in bringing Payton into those franchises. Perry knows Payton well, and what he could bring to the table for the Kings in the coming season.
Darius Acuff Jr. is the Kings' starting point guard with Ben Simmons as his backup. Payton will make an excellent third-string PG, as well as a solid mentor for Acuff. Payton can show the rookie how to be a floor general in the NBA and help him navigate the pressure that comes with being a high draft pick.
Payton is 32, and has been in the league for 12 years. He doesn't have a history of major injuries like Simmons, just the normal wear and tear the game brings. As he would be the third-string point guard, one would expect his minutes to be lower than Acuff and Simmons, minimizing any potential issues.
His veteran presence at the one will bring balance to this younger team, and hopefully be a positive influence on Acuff. Plus, the Kings can actually afford Payton, as he is eligible for a veteran minimum contract should Sacramento decided to keep him. At this point, he might be their best option.
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