The Sacramento Kings had a major regression last NBA season. After making the playoffs for the first time in over two decades, they fell out of playoff contention. Instead, a play-in loss marked the end of their season, leading to a long offseason. Rather than addressing their defensive issues, the team opted for a unique offensive solution, acquiring DeMar DeRozan as their third star.
While the fit with DeRozan raises questions, it is the direction Sacramento is heading. However, DeRozan’s addition doesn’t resolve the lingering concerns about the roster, particularly the Kings’ lackluster interior defense. To contend, Sacramento must address its defensive weaknesses, possibly by trading DeRozan for a player who better fits their needs or finding defensive bigs to improve their second unit.
One potential solution to Sacramento’s defensive woes is Robert Williams III. Currently with the Portland Trail Blazers, Williams has been in NBA purgatory. On a Kings team that ranked last in blocked shots with just 4.1 per game, Williams’ career average of 1.7 blocks would be a significant upgrade. Although his health remains a question mark, Williams’ defensive presence could be worth the risk for the Kings.
Williams would immediately become the best big man on Sacramento’s second unit and arguably the team’s top defender. His elite rim-running ability would create a dynamic two-man game with De’Aaron Fox. Additionally, Williams’ passing skills would allow the Kings to maintain their Domantas Sabonis-style offense off the bench.
Steven Adams is another name the Kings could consider for their bench. Although he is still working his way back into NBA shape after missing all of last season, Adams could find his footing as a key contributor. At 30 years old, Adams fits Sacramento’s timeline while addressing their interior needs. Before his injury, Adams was one of the league’s best offensive rebounders.
Even if Adams doesn’t return to his peak form, he would still fill a crucial role for the Kings. Sacramento’s need for interior defense is immense, and Adams remains one of the top defensive presences in the NBA. Given his injury recovery, his trade value is low, making him an affordable target for the Kings. His addition would give Sacramento a much-needed physical presence in the paint.
The last time DeMar DeRozan was swapped for Kawhi Leonard, the team that made the deal won the NBA Championship. The Kings would hope for a similar outcome if they pursued Leonard.
When healthy, Leonard is still one of the best two-way players in the league, virtually guaranteeing 25 points and eight rebounds per game. His defense, still a cornerstone of his game, would be a crucial asset for Sacramento. Additionally, Leonard’s efficiency as a shooter (50/40/90 percentages) would complement the Kings’ high-volume shooting offense.
A trade for Leonard would likely signal the end of the Los Angeles Clippers’ current championship window. However, for Sacramento, it could be the move that elevates them to title contention, giving them a legitimate third star alongside Fox and Sabonis. While the trade would be risky, it’s a gamble the Kings might need to make to compete for an NBA title.
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