Sacramento Kings: All the pieces are in place for De’Aaron Fox to rise in 2021

All the pieces are in place for Sacramento Kings guard De’Aaron Fox to rise

De’Aaron Fox has terrorized defenses with his raw speed and athleticism through the first few years of his career. The spearhead of the NBA’s fastest offense, he’s asserted himself as the quickest player in the league. He has also grown into a confident court general, averaging over 20 points per game. Heading into the fourth year, all the pieces are now in place for Fox to make the jump to stardom.

The Sacramento Kings had a poor showing in the Orlando restart bubble, failing to make the 9th seed play-in games. Despite this, Fox managed to provide fans with something to cheer about. Posting a career-high 39 points against the San Antonio Spurs, the young guard dominated every aspect of the game. Driving into the paint, finishing through traffic, and creating his own shot off the dribble. His control of the game was unmatched and for the first time, it was clear to see Fox has that superstar gene.

His first three years in the league have revolved around speed, speed, and more speed. His major weakness has been his shot, well, his free throw and 3-point shot to be exact. Over his career, he is shooting a mere 72 percent from the line and a dismal 32 percent from 3-point range. With Fox playing a similar style to Russell Westbrook, these numbers may unnerve Sacramento Fans.

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In saying this, there is reason to believe these numbers are set to rise. Speaking with JJ Redick on the ‘The Old Man and the Three’ podcast, Fox revealed how speed is only a small part of who he is as an NBA player. He explained how he plans to slow everything down, replacing raw speed for composure.

For someone like Fox, this step is crucial if he is to ever become a threat from deep. He said so himself, he is more comfortable shooting off the dribble, and to me, that is a reason for concern. By slowing the game down and taking his time with each aspect, I see no reason why Fox can’t shoot above 35 percent from downtown.

It seems as though Fox has learned a thing or two from the seasoned NBA veterans when it comes to body preservation. Fox explained how early in his career he relied far too much on his athletic ability. This caused him to consistently pick up injuries that have hindered his progression. Because of this, Fox is planning to slow down his game. Longevity in this league is at the forefront of his mind, and I think Kings fans can rejoice knowing how dedicated he is to staying healthy. Newly drafted guard RJ Hampton recently Tweeted how he believes he will be the fastest player in the league next year.

"To this, Fox replied, “he can have it, I’m slowing it down.”"

Don’t get me wrong, I love watching him zoom up and down the court, but speed is only a small aspect of basketball. If this turns out to be the case and he trades in some speed for greater composure and an improved shot, then I am all for it.

Fox has improved across the board in his first three years and as a result, was shortlisted as a finalist for the NBA’s Most Improved Player of the Year award. Now after signing a max deal that may potentially reach up to $195.6 million, it’s no secret that Sacramento is all-in on their guard.

Fox’s potential is unquestionable and there is no reason why he won’t have improved heading into his fourth season. While the West is fierce and the Kings will struggle to make the 8th seed, I would be very surprised if he is not knocking on the door to All-Star weekend.

My prediction? I see him averaging a healthy 25 points, three rebounds,, and 8 assists per game.