Precious Achiuwa could change the Kings' game in one major way

With the news that free agent Precious Achiuwa is joining the Sacramento Kings, their outlook this season has changed a bit. The former Knick is known for his strong defense, an area the Kings are decisively lacking in. If this works out, things might be looking up for Sacramento.

When Doug Christie entered his first training camp as the Kings' head coach, he made it clear that defense was the name of the game from now on. And he's right. Sacramento's generally mediocre performance on defense regularly costs them games, and has been doing so for years.

A new focus for the team doesn't change the fact that the roster doesn't have many defensive players. There are a few like Keegan Murray, Keon Ellis, and Dennis Schroder, but the team is mostly made up of scorers and shooters who aren't the best at the other end of the court.

Precious Achiuwa moves to Sactown

After six seasons in the NBA, Achiuwa has built a reputation as a tenacious and versatile defender. He's as capable at shutting down shooters on the three-point line as he is locking down centers in the paint and the post. Plus, he is an effective shot-blocker, something the Kings need.

What's great about Achiuwa is he excels on defense without committing fouls. His career average is only 1.8 fouls per game, which is impressive. On top of that, his career average on turnovers is only 1.0 per game. The man plays relatively clean basketball.

While he's not known for is scoring, Achiuwa runs hard in transition, creating offensive opportunities before the defense is set. In addition to that, he's a collects offensive rebounds with gusto, creating second chance opportunities for himself and his teammates.

The Kings chose well

Sacramento is not lacking in shooters and scorers. While any offense Achiuwa can provide will be helpful, that's not why he's there. Precious is a dedicated defensive presence on the court, something the Kings desperately need.

Plus, Precious is a capable power forward, a position the Kings lack depth at. This has been a particular issue with Keegan Murray out injured. DeMar DeRozan has been playing at the four in his absence, but Achiuwa will be a great backup for either starter.

Outside of waiving Isaac Jones, this has been a smart move by the Kings. Achiuwa will bring a strong defensive mindset, high energy in transition, and help anchor the secondary. He is the exact kind of player fans have been hoping the front office would bring on board.