While there's no doubt that Maxime Raynaud is doing a great job and Dylan Cardwell is going to be a bucket, the Sacramento Kings could still use an absolute monster at center. That's where Aday Mara, a 7 foot 3 inch center out of the University of Michigan. comes in and likely dominates.
The Spurs drafting Victor Wembanyama started an arms race in the NBA of teams looking for giants who can ball. Everyone wants a seven-footer who can put the rim on lockdown on defense and drain a three-pointer at the other end of the court. It's becoming about size and versatility.
While having someone of Wembanyama's height doesn't guarantee victory, it certainly doesn't hurt. It definitely provides an advantage in a variety of situations. As it stands right now, the only player on the Kings' roster over 6'10" is center Maxime Raynaud, who clocks in at 7'1".
The other problem is that Raynaud is really the only well-rounded big man on the team. Dylan Cardwell is probably in second place, but he primarily in the G League at this point. That's good for him, but the Kings are going to need more skilled size in the development pipeline moving forward.
Enter the Spanish dragon, Aday Mara
Mara had three years of FIBA experience in Europe before heading to the US to play college ball for UCLA. He only stayed there for one season as he found it nearly impossible to get time. Now, Aday is a Michigan Wolverine, getting minutes and ranking at 13 on FanSided's NBA Draft Big Board.
On defense, Mara is a devastating shot-blocker and rebounder, shutting down the opposing team's offense with ease. This is a big man who moves surprisingly quickly with dangerous reflexes. It's almost like he takes ever offensive play that shows up in his paint personally.
When he hits the other end of the court, he's a strong finisher, which isn't a surprise. What is surprising is how strong a play-maker he is. Aday is an incredible passer, and has strong basketball instincts. He's one of those guys that just seems to know what the right play is.
Aday will definitely need time to adjust to the NBA, particularly the physical play and high octane pace. Once he makes that adjustment, Mara could make an excellent running buddy for Raynaud, putting twin-tower line on the court that would shut opposing offenses down.