Training Camp Primer: Kings open camp shorthanded

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Game on!

After what seemed like one of the longest summers in recent memory, Sacramento Kings basketball is officially back. It all starts on Monday with Media Day, followed by the beginning of training camp on Tuesday. It will be a whirlwind from here on out leading up to an opening night battle against the Minnesota Timberwolves at Golden 1 Center on October 24.

The Kings made a final move on Saturday afternoon, adding journeyman Broderic Thomas before releasing their training camp roster for the 2024-25 season. He joins a small group of players vying for the team’s 15th roster spot.

Here is what you need to know as basketball returns with a fury. 

They’re Back…

The dynamic duo of De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis headline a group of players who have made up the core of the Kings’ rotation for the last two seasons. They are surrounded by third-year forward Keegan Murray, star Sixth Man Malik Monk, defensive specialist Keon Ellis, sharpshooter Kevin Huerter and veteran big men, Trey Lyles and Alex Len. 

In addition to the main rotation group, second-year guard Colby Jones and two-way player Mason Jones are back for another tour of duty.

The New Guys

DeMar DeRozan (3-year, $76.7 million), Jalen McDaniels (1-year, $4.7 million), Devin Carter (4-years, 22.2 million), Jordan McLaughlin (1-year, $2.4 million), Orlando Robinson (1-year, $2.1 million w/ $500,000 guaranteed)

Sacramento made a few moves during the offseason to reshape a roster that had become stagnant. Headlining the additions with guaranteed contracts is six-time All-Star DeMar DeRozan, who instantly steps into the role of second scoring option behind Fox. 

McDaniels has the length and athleticism the Kings have been searching for at forward, but he has been wildly erratic during stops in Charlotte, Philly and Toronto. If the 26-year-old can find his range from three and provide a defensive presence, he could work his way into Mike Brown’s rotation.

The Kings spent the No. 12 overall selection on Carter, but they’ll have to wait until January, at the earliest, before he sees game action due to shoulder surgery. He’s a connector on the offensive end and a gritty defender on the other side of the ball, but he’s missing valuable time during his rookie season.

McLaughlin shot the lights out last season for the Timberwolves, knocking down 47.2 percent from three in limited opportunities. He could be an offensive upgrade over the departed Davion Mitchell, but matching Off Night’s on-ball defense won’t be easy. 

With a $500K guarantee, Robinson makes this group as well. He’s an intriguing young 7-footer with a 7-foot-4 wingspan who spent the last two seasons with the Miami Heat. He isn’t a super athlete, but he can rebound, block some shots, has a soft touch around the rim and can even hit an occasional 3-ball.