NBA Mock Draft Roundup: Sacramento Kings

Without an advanced handle or perimeter game, Williams still averaged 11.9 points, shot 58.8 percent inside the arc and 41.5 percent from three. And at 6’6.5″ in socks with a giant 7’1″ wingspan, his defensive tools remain outstanding. Even a worst-case outcome for Williams can contribute with his efficient off-ball scoring and ability to guard wings and forwards. But given his age (19) and reported character—plus the fact that his brother, Jalen, appears on track toward blossoming into an All-Star—teams could talk themselves into his upside.

Bleacher Report’s Jonathan Wasserman – June 8, 2024

The Ringer – Tennessee forward Dalton Knecht

The Kings don’t exactly need more offense, but Knecht was a devastating scorer at the college level and could become a cheaper replacement for, and potential upgrade over, Kevin Huerter. And then the Kings could move Huerter’s salary in a deal that nets defense.

The Ringer’s Kevin O’Conner – June 7, 2024

USA Today – Providence guard Devin Carter

Strong, physical guard who can score from multiple spots on the court and will post-up smaller guards. Provides outstanding rebounding and shot-blocking from his position. Son of former NBA guard Anthony Carter.

USA Today’s Jeff Zillgett – June 11, 2024

NBADraft.net – Baylor guard Ja’Kobe Walter

Walter is a sleek 6’5 195 swingman who has solid length and adequate athleticism on the wing, as well as the frame to put on more muscle … At 6’5 with a 6’10 wingspan, he has a solid frame as a NBA 2-guard … Jump shot is his bread and butter offensively; shows good confidence, range and is not bashful about letting it fly (6.3 3FGA/G) … Can make shots in bunches; had 8 games with 4+ made 3-pointers as a Fr (14.5 PPG).

NBADraft.net – June 2024

Tankathon – Cholet Basket forward Tidjane Salaun

He shows awesome flashes of perimeter skills and can play like a jumbo wing, bringing the ball up the court and splashing three pointers – impressive skills for a 6-10 teenager. He instantly passes the eye test when you see him on the court and it’s rare to see a 6-10 player with his level of movement skills and athleticism.

NBA Draft Room – June 2024

Post-Mock Draft Roundup Thoughts

As you can see, the projections are currently a mixed bag for the Sacramento Kings.

Prized Sixth Man of the Year runner-up Malik Monk could depart in free agency in the coming weeks, leaving a massive hold in head coach Mike Brown’s second unit. This explains why some analysts have predicted McNair to select a scoring guard like McCain or Dillingham.

It’s no secret that the Kings need wing depth, specifically interchangeable forwards that are capable of defending multiple positions. This would make the selection of a defense-first prospect like Cody Williams enticing, but we have learned that McNair will not draft specifically to fill areas of need.

McNair, as he has told the media multiple times over the years, is going to draft the best player that he and his front office believe will be available–but what if the best player available isn’t in the draft pool?

There have been whispers that Sacramento is looking to move the 13th pick as they attempt to give this roster a face-lift, but it remains to be seen which player(s) that McNair and company are targetting.

Draft experts are unsure of the Kings’ plans for the 13th pick, and it’s shaping up to be an interesting end of June for Sacramento as the draft will run into the start of free agency on June 30th.