The Sacramento Kings have shown consistent promise over the last few seasons. To make the best of their young core with De’Aaron Fox and Sabonis at the helm, they brought in the veteran master DeMar DeRozan. The former Bulls star is a crafty scorer, further intensifying the Kings’ relentless and quick offense. However, recently he shared some insights into his ongoing battle with mental health, also sharing his story in his memoir. In these times, the franchise has decided to add greater depth to its roster while also addressing its defensive woes.
In a new report by Sam Amick, the Kings have reportedly invited TJ Warren to work out for a potential place on the roster. His career catapulted during his dream run during the Orlando Bubble in 2020. A clinical 50-point game was among his few highlights. Moreover, at 6’8″, he is a challenging defensive presence to get past, an area the Kings need help in.
As easy as it was scoring points for them last season, they ranked 14th in defense, averaging 17th in points allowed per game. With Deebo on their side, their attacking unit looks ravishing. However, in their moves before, they lost Davion Mitchell, a tenacious defender who helped slow down the opponent. Harrison Barnes was also a casualty in their transaction for DeMar DeRozan.
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Per sources, the Kings are working out TJ Warren this week. The 31-year-old who averaged a career-high 19.8 points for the Pacers in 2019-20 last played with Minnesota last season (11 games).
The Kings have Jae Crowder and Nassir Little in this week as well. (@SeanCunningham…
— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) September 16, 2024
Likewise, with Warren on the squad, they can hope for timely scoring output while also having a robust defensive presence on the floor. Last season with the Wolves he briefly showed his ferocity as a stopper. However, there have always been inconsistencies in that regard. Warren has also been injury-prone, playing just 57 games over the past four seasons.
Amick also mentioned Nassir Little and Bucks’ Jae Crowder being involved in the process. Who of the three could benefit the Kings the most though?
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Can the 'Bubble Hero' revive the Kings' fortunes and help De'Aaron Fox lead them to glory?
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The Kings have a choice between the two
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As tempting as a TJ Warren redemption is, the Kings may be looking at their initial two invites to add to the roster. With Milwaukee last season, Crowder played 50 games. He has the ability to be a tough physical defender who can stretch the floor having a career 34.8% shooting. However, Nassir Little has all the tools to evolve.
Little didn’t see much time on the floor with the Phoenix Suns last season. At just 24, he is hungry to prove himself, waiting for an opportunity to take on a bigger role. When he had that with the Portland Trail Blazers, he held opponents to under 30% from beyond the arc. His 6’6″ frame and exceptional perimeter defense can be of major assistance to the Sacramento Kings.
The only drawback is his lack of consistency. Over the last few seasons, his productions on both ends have stooped. But with youth on his side, he seems to be the ideal choice to dense their forward rotation. What matters more than stats is his dedication and mentality. In 2021, he proudly flaunted his defensive potential saying “I have the tools to be one of the best defenders in this league”.
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The Kings play with energy, and the atmosphere in their arena is always rousing. Players like Mitchell, despite being undersized found their fit within the roster. The right place can make a significant difference. Mike Brown is adept and influencing and bringing the intensity out of his players. If played right, Little could end up being a difference-maker as a 3-and-D forward.
Who do you think the Kings should pick of the three? Let us know your views in the comments below.
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Can the 'Bubble Hero' revive the Kings' fortunes and help De'Aaron Fox lead them to glory?