The Sacramento Kings made a splash this offseason by trading for DeMar DeRozan. The six-time All-Star’s hot takes are legendary, but the franchise is excited about his elite scoring and clutch marksmanship. He has averaged over 20 points per game for 11 consecutive seasons. Adding another scorer gives the franchise hope of being one of the best offenses in the league and puts their weaknesses into focus.
The Kings want to return to the playoffs and make a run, but it won’t be easy. The Western Conference is loaded and multiple unexpected teams will likely be in the Play-In Tournament. Sacramento also must navigate a problematic defense and cramped floor.
Their roster is screaming out for a trade, and Kevin Huerter is the most obvious candidate to be moved. He had shoulder surgery in March and is just starting on-court workouts. The 6’7 wing will miss the start of the regular season, but he should be ready early on. The Kings need to move on.
Kings need to trade Kevin Huerter for a defensive-minded wing
Sacramento’s trade for Huerter is not looking great after last season. He was playing just 23.3 minutes per game over his final 15 before suffering a shoulder injury. Huerter was struggling to make shots and had a negative defensive box score plus-minus for the fifth time in six seasons. The fit is just not there, and playing time will be even harder to come by with DeRozan replacing Harrison Barnes.
Huerter still has two years and $34.8 million remaining on his contract. It is a reasonable amount if he proves healthy and finds his jumper. The Kings do not need offense. They want a versatile defender who is comfortable operating without the ball.
Sacramento is searching for a 3-and-D wing and would be wise to contact the Nets. Brooklyn appears headed towards a rebuild and has multiple options available. Dorian Finney-Smith would fit nicely.
Huerter just turned 26 and would have a chance to rebuild his value in Brooklyn with a larger offensive role. The Kings want Fox, DeRozan, and Domantas Sabonis taking shots. Malik Monk will fill it up off the bench, which leaves little room for Huerter to maximize his skill set. The best option for both sides is to move on and start fresh elsewhere.
Teams will likely wait until Kevin Huerter is healthy and playing a consistent role before considering him in trade packages. The 6’7 wing is just starting to ramp up. He must find his jumper as the Sacramento Kings attempt to return to the playoffs. This move is obvious, but his injury and contract likely prevent it from happening until close to the Feb. 6 trade deadline. Hopefully, patience pays.