NBA Draft Prediction: Which player the Kings are expected to select in the first round
Following the Kings’ near-miss at the NBA playoffs, their immediate focus shifts to deciding the fate of their 2024 first-round draft pick. While the option to trade the selection for an established veteran is on the table, the allure of adding a talented rookie on a manageable contract remains enticing.
As it stands, Sacramento is slated to pick 13th overall in the 2024 NBA Draft. However, there’s a slim chance they could move up in the lottery, with a 3.8-percent likelihood of cracking the top four and a 0.8-percent shot at claiming the first overall pick.
Various NBA analysts have weighed in on what the Kings might do with their pick should they retain it and select at No. 13. Adam Finkelstein from CBS Sports suggests Jared McCain, a dynamic guard from Duke, as a potential pick. McCain, standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 197 pounds, showcased his skills during his freshman year, starting 36 games and averaging 14.3 points, five rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game.
Kyle Boone, also from CBS Sports, proposes Tidjane Salaun, a forward from France, as another option for Sacramento. Salaun, standing at 6-foot-9 and weighing 212 pounds, is praised for his shooting and potential versatility on the wing, providing the Kings with much-needed depth in that area.
Jonathan Wasserman of Bleacher Report echoes Finkelstein’s sentiment, suggesting Jared McCain as a viable choice for Sacramento. Wasserman highlights McCain’s potential as a scoring guard or a spark off the bench, potentially filling the void left by any departures, such as that of Malik Monk, who averaged 15.4 points per game during the 2023-24 season.
Ultimately, the decision lies with general manager Monte McNair, who will need to weigh the team’s immediate needs against the long-term potential of their draft selection.
