NBA: Predicting how the Western Conference playoff race will play out

Sacramento Kings

The Sacramento Kings have surprised everyone this year. Before the season, most would have had them as a bottom-feeder and lottery contender but they came out with a vastly improved young core (led by their dynamic backcourt of De’Aaron Fox and Buddy Hield) and have just played hard and competed every night.

They also added Harrison Barnes at the trade deadline which was a big upgrade on the wing.

So, why are they going to be on the outside looking in at season’s end?

Although acquiring Barnes was a smart move, it will take a little while to get him acclimated into the team but they can’t really afford to play the long game here. And that is what will ultimately lead to their downfall. With only three playoff spots up for grabs, the Kings just don’t have enough time to overtake a team like Utah and I don’t see them sneaking into the eighth spot because of another team I’ll get to in a little bit.