4 Kings who definitely won't be back, 3 who shouldn't return next season

Won’t be back: Kessler Edwards

The Nets selected Edwards in the second round in 2021 and traded him to Sacramento at the 2023 deadline. He played in each of the final 20 regular season games after the deal but was axed from the Kings' playoff rotation. Fans were expecting a step forward from the 23-year-old in his third NBA season, but it did not happen.

Edwards averaged just 1.7 points and 0.8 rebounds in 5.1 minutes in his first full season in Sacramento. He played in 54 games, but he saw more than ten minutes just 11 times. The 23-year-old put up strong numbers in his four G League contests. It was positive, but the Kings need more if he is going to sign a long-term deal.

The 6’8 wing is a restricted free agent this summer. Sacramento has the right to match any offer, but the front office should tread lightly here. They cannot afford to be paying more than the minimum for someone who is no guarantee to ever be a consistent part of their rotation. If some team wants to swoop in with an offer, the Kings should let Edwards walk.

Sacramento does not have a ton of young talent, but they cannot afford to overpay to keep it. The Kings want to contend and letting go of Kessler Edwards is the best decision for both parties. He needs more minutes, and the franchise should search for more production.