9. Sacramento Kings
Last season: 39-43, 9th in Western Conference
Notable additions: Cory Joseph, Dewayne Dedmon, Trevor Ariza
Notable subtractions: Willie Cauley-Stein, Kosta Koufos
The Sacramento Kings have, for the most part, stayed the same this offseason. Their ranking here is the same as their finishing position last season, too. Don’t let that fool you, though; this team is still on the right track, and they will be better this season than last.
The starting backcourt of De’Aaron Fox and Buddy Hield became one of the most dynamic in the league last season, and they should continue to improve together. Bogdan Bogdanovic has had an outstanding FIBA World Cup campaign and should garner some attention for Sixth Man of the Year, while new signing Cory Joseph will add some much-needed stability to the second unit and complete one of the strongest guard rotations in the NBA.
For as much criticism as he takes, Harrison Barnes may finally be in his ideal situation for the first time since leaving Golden State. His 14.3 points per game might seem modest given his hefty salary, but with Hield and Fox taking on the scoring load he’s back in his niche as a spot-up shooter (40.8 3PT%) and switchable defender.
The remaining frontcourt rotation is deep but still surrounded by some questions. Marvin Bagley dissuaded many of the concerns around him with some excellent production backed up by solid defense, but his -3.2 net rating suggests there are still some holes in his overall game. Nemanja Bjelica was outstanding as a stretch big last season, but he too can struggle defensively. Dewayne Dedmon is a smart defender and will be a steadying veteran presence, but his backup Harry Giles remains a fairly raw talent.
Next season’s Kings will live and die with Fox, though. His speed in the full court is unmatched, and his ability to break down defenders and race to the hoop opens up the offense for himself and others. If his improved three-point stroke is sustainable, he will have the chance to become a bonafide star as he leads the Kings in search of a playoff spot.