So far, sports media predictions for the Sacramento Kings in 2026-2027 haven't exactly been positive. The Ringer recently added their voice to the choir calling for the Kings' failure. But they left out that not only is that expected, but it's part of the long-term rebuild process they're focused on.
Nobody in the media seems to have much positive to say about Sacramento going into this season. Clutch Points doesn't expect much, but at least accurately assessed some of the positives and negatives of what the Kings are looking at this season. It was realistic, if nothing else.
Then there's the Ringer, which recently placed the Kings in dead last going into 2026-2027. They're certainly not the first outlet to make that point, and there will likely be more. But in this specific case, it felt like there was no attempt to look at anything positive happening on the Kings.
The Ringer's bleak outlook on Sacramento
To be fair, the Ringer isn't wrong about the problems on the Kings. There are a lot of real concerns about Doug Christie as head coach. Darius Acuff Jr. has real work to do. Sacramento's defence is in terrible shape overall. The Ben Simmons signing is, at best, an oddity with limited potential.
But their brief analysis leaves out a lot of the best parts. Maxime Raynaud and Dylan Cardwell are both poised to make huge leaps as sophomores. On top of that, Alex Karaban and Emanuel Sharp are looking at potential breakout rookie seasons if the Kings get them minutes.
It also ignores the fact that several players who were out injured, including Domantas Sabonis and Keegan Murray, are returning. Yes, last season was a wash due to poor roster construction and injuries. But the offseason has led to changes and returns. This season is another step on the path.
Building towards the Kings' future
Honestly, no one is expecting big things from Sacramento in 2026-2027. They might be working their way through a rebuild, but that's a long way off from bearing any kind of fruit. It's going to take this franchise years to get where it needs to go, not to mention more roster and coaching changes.
That means that more rough seasons like 2025-2026 and probably 2026-2027 should be expected. At the same time, don't ignore the progress the Kings have made so far. It's minute, but it's there. And there are several players on this current roster who could play a big part in improving their situation.
The Ringer is most likely right in that the Kings will be at the bottom of the league when the upcoming season comes to a close. Calling for the 30th spot might be a little much considering the state of teams like the Bucks, Pelicans, and Clippers. Hopefully, the Kings can at least show their potential.
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