Kings Could Trade Promising Young Guard Before He Gets to Blossom

The Sacramento Kings are at an interesting crossroads. They traded away their franchise star last season and are trying to turn a new page. The problem is, their roster is weirdly constructed and could be destined for the dreaded middle of the NBA. They aren't good enough to contend in the Western Conference, and they aren't bad enough (and don't have exciting young prospects) to rebuild. 

Because of this, the Kings will likely be part of many NBA trade rumors this season. Marc Stein of The Stein Line gave an update on the Kings' trade rumors entering the 2025–26 NBA season. 

“Devin Carter's days with the franchise appear to be dwindling. He might have been the 13th overall pick out of Providence as recently as the 2024 NBA Draft, but the front office leaders who made that selection (Monte McNair and Wes Wilcox) are no longer in Sacramento. Sources say Carter's name has already featured in trade chatter throughout this offseason.”

It looks like the Kings are already considering cutting ties with their lottery pick from last season. Carter had an OK rookie year, playing in 36 games, averaging 3.8 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in just 11 minutes per game. 

Carter showed a lot of promise defensively as a rookie, causing many to believe he may be able to carve out a role on the Kings next year. 

It sounds like the Kings have different ideas. Giving up this early on a lottery pick is not usually a good sign. Either the franchise or the player has not lived up to expectations. In this situation, it could be a bit of both.