The Sacramento Kings were the feel-good story of the NBA last season. They went from the 12th seed the year before to the third seed last year under new coach Mike Brown. One of the longest-tenured players on the team stuck around for the rebuild. However, at one point, the Kings ‘flirted’ with options on the wing before signing Harrison Barnes.
Barnes entered free agency once the Kings’ season ended in the playoffs. He had already spent the last five seasons with the team. At 31 years old though, the Kings thought to look at other wings in the market before returning.
According to Anthony Slater of the Athletic, Kyle Kuzma of the Wizards was an option. Also, Sacramento was monitoring the Raptors’ O.G. Anunoby’s availability.
“The Kings flirted with alternative options on the wing instead of Barnes. Kyle Kuzma was among those discussed. They reportedly checked in with Toronto on OG Anunoby. But hours before the free-agency bell rung, they’d landed back on Barnes, returning on a reasonable enough deal ($17 million, $18 million, $19 million the next three seasons) that he’ll surely be floated as matching salary the next time the Kings enter the trade mix, though he can’t be dealt until January.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Harrison Barnes & Sacramento Kings Updates
The abovementioned players seem to be a better option due to the youth it would bring to the team. But, as a solid veteran who is looking for nothing more than to be a solid contributor, Barnes seemingly fits best. He played in all 82 games for the Kings and averaged 15 points a game as a starter. He re-signed with the Kings on a three year contract worth $54 million due to his solid play.
Despite that, the Kings could still look to shop around for another wing before the trade deadline on February 8th of 2024. Barnes could be a piece to be thrown in the conversation to add to the already solid roster of the Kings.
“No, it’s crazy,” Barnes told The Athletic. “In this business, look at all the stuff that’s happened in the last week. So to be traded, signed and then sign again with the same franchise, it’s special.”
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Harrison Barnes & Sacramento Kings Updates
Barnes is a great veteran for the team who has championship experience in his days with the Warriors. Regardless, the way the NBA is going, his tenure could end with the Kings but his outstanding play might keep him around for the duration of the contract until 2026.
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