Jason Thompson: Sacramento’s rebuild is off to a strong start
Jason Thompson shares why he's optimistic about the Sacramento Kings, discusses Darius Acuff Jr.'s Summer League & the team's rebuild.
Watch: Jason Thompson Explains Why Kings Fans Should Stay Patient | 15 mins
Former Sacramento Kings forward Jason Thompson knows better than almost anyone what the organization and its fan base have endured over the years.
The franchise’s all-time leader in games played during the Sacramento era (541) returned to Sactown Sports’ The Drive Guys during NBA Summer League in Las Vegas, where he shared his thoughts on the Kings’ young core, the team’s new identity and why fans shouldn’t overreact to Darius Acuff Jr.’s slow start.
Now an assistant coach for the NBA G League’s Capital City Go-Go, Thompson sees plenty of young talent develop firsthand. That’s why he believes Summer League should be viewed as a learning experience rather than a final verdict.
“Darius Acuff Jr. is the face of the franchise,” Thompson said. “When you’re picked that high, there’s pressure that comes with it.”
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA – JULY 04: Darius Acuff Jr. #5 of the Sacramento Kings dribbling the ball looks to drive to the basket against the Brooklyn Nets during the second half in the California Classic a NBA Summer League game at Golden 1 Center on July 04, 2026 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
While Acuff has struggled to find his shot through his first few Summer League appearances, Thompson isn’t concerned.
“I think once he gets into a rhythm and the game slows down for him, he’ll be fine,” Thompson explained. “That’s why you have Summer League. He’ll go back, watch the film, see how teams are guarding him and make adjustments. It’s good to get the kinks out now so he can be ready when the popcorn’s popping on opening night.”
Beyond Acuff, Thompson likes the physical style Sacramento is beginning to establish under general manager Scott Perry.
“I think it’s good for you guys to be physical, dominate the paint, dominate the boards and let everything else handle itself,” Thompson said.
The former Kings big man pointed to the NBA Finals as proof that size and rebounding continue to matter despite the league’s emphasis on three-point shooting.
“If you can control the glass, avoid second-chance points and take good shots, you’ll be in every game.”
Thompson also praised Sacramento’s young frontcourt after watching Maxime Raynaud and Dylan Cardwell compete in Las Vegas, noting their physicality and versatility on both ends of the floor.
Looking at the bigger picture, Thompson believes Kings fans should remain patient as the organization reshapes its roster.
Dylan Cardwell #32 of the Sacramento Kings reacts during their game against the Toronto Raptors at Golden 1 Center on January 21, 2026 in Sacramento, California. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)
“I think it’s something fans can have great hope in,” Thompson said. “It’s a rebuilding stage, and rebuilding always takes time.”
He pointed to organizations like the San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder, reminding fans that even championship franchises endured difficult rebuilding years before returning to contention.
Despite the ups and downs during his seven seasons in Sacramento, Thompson still speaks fondly of his time with the organization and the city.
“I loved playing in Sacramento,” Thompson said. “It made me into the person I am today as a player and as a coach.”
Listen to The Drive Guys from 2 – 6 p.m. PST, Monday through Friday, on Sactown Sports 1140.
More Sacramento Kings content from Sactown Sports
What is the next Sacramento Kings Offseason Event?
Darius Acuff Jr. & the Sacramento Kings will continue their Las Vegas Summer League slate on Wednesday afternoon at UNLV when they play the second game of a back-to-back.
Sacramento is set to face the Boston Celtics at 5 p.m. on Wednesday at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Sactown Sports will be ON SITE in Las Vegas ALL WEEK LONG from July 12-19th! Be sure to remain locked into Sactown Sports for your Sacramento Kings Summer League news, analysis, and much more!
Upcoming Sacramento Kings Offseason Schedule
- Thursday, July 9th – Sunday, July 19th – NBA Las Vegas Summer League
- August TBD – 2026-27 NBA Schedule release
- Late September – NBA training camps begin
2026 Sacramento Kings Las Vegas Summer League Schedule
- Wednesday, July 15: vs. Boston Celtics – 5 p.m. PT (ESPN 2)
- Final game TBD
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Comments
1 Comments
Good to see Thompson doing well and has stuff goin on in his post playing career. Thought those front courts with him & Boogie were quite a dynamic duo.
Back then I had hope we were building something good, Big Cuz, JT, Tyreke, IT, Thornton, Casspi but just never panned out :s