3 Kings that earned untouchable status, 2 that should be cut loose 

Keegan Murray earned untouchable status

The Kings’ youngster did not end the season on the highest note, struggling against the Pelicans, but he showed incredible growth in just his second NBA season. On the defensive end, he went from a target to a weapon Mike Brown could throw at the opponent's best scorers, and offensively, he moved beyond being just a catch-and-shoot threat from three. 

Around the trade deadline, the Kings were reportedly looking for a third All-Star, but every team they talked to wanted Keegan Murray in return. That was a dealbreaker for the Kings because they believed that Murray could grow into a star sooner rather than later. While he is not there yet, he showed flashes several times this season, and it doesn’t seem that the organization will change its mind about him any time soon. 

The Kings do not have much young talent playing actual minutes outside of Murray and Keon Ellis. Kessler Edwards could not break the rotation despite his defensive talent, and Colby Jones spent most of his rookie season in the G League or on Mike Brown’s bench. 

Murray is the cornerstone of the Kings’ long-term future right now, and it doesn’t seem that there are any names available that would convince the front office to give up on that. Depending on what happens this summer, the Kings will need a huge third season from Murray, however.