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And now we wait

Will the Kings capitalize on Thursday's trade?
By | 299 Comments | Jun 28, 2024

Dec 13, 2022; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Sacramento Kings owner Vivek Ranadive (L) and general manager Monte McNair (R) look on during warm ups before a game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

We’re in a strange lull today and tomorrow. The draft is completed, and NBA free agency kicks off on Sunday. In the meantime teams can make trades, as we’ve already seen this morning, as the Mavericks sent Tim Hardaway Jr. to Detroit, and teams can re-sign their own players, as we saw the Toronto Raptors extend Immanuel Quickley.

The big question for Kings fans is whether yesterday’s trade was simply a cost-cutting move, or if it was a move to set up something else. The Kings shed salary yesterday, which opens up a few options. First, and I want to clear this up because there was confusion in yesterday’s comments section, this trade open up the full Mid-Level Exception for the Kings. Before cutting this salary, the Kings technically had the full Non-Taxpayer MLE available to them, but using it would have hard-capped the team at the first apron (I confirmed these details with Spotrac’s Keith Smith). So before this trade, the Kings were realistically limited to the Taxpayer MLE.

So with yesterday’s trade, the Kings now have room to use the full MLE of around $12.9 million, rather than the Tax MLE of $5.2 million. Another thing worth noting is that under the new CBA, teams can actually use the MLE in trades, rather than just being able to use it to sign free agents.

As we wait for free agency to begin, one major storyline hanging over the league is Paul George’s contract option. PG is widely seen as the crucial domino for free agency, as his decision will determine what a lot of other teams do. George has the option to opt-into his current deal for a final year at $48.8 million, and has a 6/29 deadline for that decision. If he opts in, it will likely mean he’s opting in to be traded somewhere. Whatever happens with George will impact the market for many other wing options that have been discussed in connection with the Kings, such as Brandon Ingram, Kyle Kuzma, and Cam Johnson.

Use this thread to discuss any ongoing NBA news today, as I expect we’ll continue to see some deals as teams prepare for free agency, and we’ll get separate posts up for any Kings-specific news.

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299 Comments
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andy_sims
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June 28, 2024 9:03 am

Yes. Yes they will.

TheGrantNapear
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June 28, 2024 9:06 am

I just posted this in the previous thread but I was surprised at what Quickly got from TOR (5/175). Makes no sense to me.
When players like Quickly, Herro and Poole are making $30 plus million a year, it really puts into perspective the discount Monk took.

The Mavs opened up a lot of room below the first apron with the THJ trade, presumably to resign Derrick Jones.

Teams in the West keep loading up. All eyes on Monte.

Hobby916
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June 28, 2024 9:29 am
Reply to  TheGrantNapear

Those 3 players above got paid for being non-impactful winning players. Monk is better than all 3, so I am glad they got him at the price they did. The league and GMs are bonkers with the amount of cash for middling players. I know the cap increases and what not, but damn that is a lot of cash.

TheGrantNapear
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June 28, 2024 10:00 am
Reply to  Hobby916

Yeah I would rather have MM than all three of those players not even considering the contracts.

SelecaoKOJ
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June 28, 2024 11:03 am
Reply to  Hobby916

Disagree with you on Herro. Herro statistically both offensively and defensively a better player.

Monk for all his offensive gifts. Pretty awful on Defense.

BuiltToSpill
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June 28, 2024 12:40 pm
Reply to  SelecaoKOJ

I feel like we Kings fans tend to underweight a player’s defensive capabilities when evaluating their overall value. Probably comes from years of GMs and coaches not focusing on defenders.

Hobby916
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June 28, 2024 12:40 pm
Reply to  SelecaoKOJ

Herro is the closest of the 3.

King4life
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June 28, 2024 9:09 am

Hi Greg, I just wanted to thank you for keeping this site and the conversation going during they offseason.

I’m not on social media anymore so not sure what happened to all the other writers but appreciate your work!

andy_sims
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June 28, 2024 9:51 am
Reply to  King4life

Word is that they encountered a party of cannibals while investigating rumors of a very agile 7’8″ man in the jungles of Antarctica.

King4life
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June 28, 2024 9:52 am
Reply to  andy_sims

At least someone’s looking for tall wings that can play for the Kings…

andy_sims
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June 28, 2024 10:07 am
Reply to  King4life

Not anymore they aren’t.

UpgradedToQuestionable
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June 28, 2024 1:57 pm
Reply to  andy_sims

I am of the understanding that the Sacramento Kings will only entertain the basketball talents of wings, small forwards, power forwards and centers, however they must be no taller than 6’3″ (75 inches) or 190.5cm in shoes.

Others need not apply (by orders of the Chief Dismissive Little Chap)

BuiltToSpill
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June 28, 2024 2:18 pm

That’s why there isn’t a single Sacramento (or, dare I say it? Stockton) King who is taller than 6’3″. This is objective fact, I’m told. Frequently.

Last edited 7 months ago by BuiltToSpill
AnybodyButBagley
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June 28, 2024 2:38 pm
Reply to  BuiltToSpill

Stockton has a few forwards and all are taller than that.

Why can’t the NBA team do that?

BuiltToSpill
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June 28, 2024 2:44 pm

I have it on good authority that nobody in the entire organization is allowed to be taller than Vivek because he gets jealous. Your fake news about Stockton is wrong.

When they pick up a 6’2″ player, they have to hunch when they walk past Vivek so he doesn’t notice.

Last edited 7 months ago by BuiltToSpill
AnybodyButBagley
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June 28, 2024 2:54 pm
Reply to  BuiltToSpill

You need different friends.

BuiltToSpill
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June 28, 2024 2:57 pm

You’re mistaken. I get this information from an expert who posts the same things on the Kings Herald over and over again because he knows things and he’s real smart. Real smart.

AnybodyButBagley
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June 28, 2024 3:19 pm
Reply to  BuiltToSpill

You should stop re reading your stuff.

HongKongKingsFan
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June 28, 2024 9:11 am

Encountered some login problem previously….and feels relieved that finally can get in to TKH and chat with all of you guys again..

I have faith that we may end up with one of the Kyle Kuzma or Cam Johnson…
(But hopefully we can still retain Harrison Barnes…as he is one of the soul for this team)

NorCalKingsFan
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June 28, 2024 6:17 pm

Me too, I couldn’t access the site for about 3 months. Luckily, it resolved itself a few weeks before the draft.

TheBufferZone
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June 28, 2024 9:07 pm
Reply to  NorCalKingsFan

Same. It’s been really annoying not even being able to throw someone a ???? for a good comment.

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 9:18 am

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RikSmits
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June 28, 2024 9:24 am

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UpgradedToQuestionable
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June 29, 2024 10:13 am
Reply to  RikSmits

One more day…
comment image&ct=g

swipa
June 28, 2024 9:29 am

What are your thoughts about Brandon Ingram on the Kings?

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 9:39 am
Reply to  swipa

It’s a bit like (but better than) adding LaVine. It’s a definite upgrade to your starting lineup, but it does not address interior defense too much. That said, if the price is Huerter and/or Barnes and a pick (which gets tricky, since the Kings picks are tied up for the next two years right now), you have to do it, right?

Put another way, I’d rather have Ingram than Kuzma, Wiggins, Collins or LaVine, and probably more than Portis or Jerami Grant (again, depending on the varying price tags).

Last edited 7 months ago by RobHessing
andy_sims
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June 28, 2024 9:58 am
Reply to  RobHessing

Definitely better than Lavine. Or Kuzma, Wiggins or Collins.

I’m told there are some cap issues in Milwaukee that could make Portis available, but I’d imagine that the Bucks would do everything possible to keep him. He really is the fire that gets lit under asses up there.

Grant would also seem like a good fit, particularly if he can be had without any (or much) draft capital. He, Portis and Ingram feel like guys who can push the team farther into the playoffs. I don’t think the four I mentioned up top can move the needle that way.

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 10:24 am
Reply to  andy_sims

You never know the validity to these things, but I saw something somewhere that Portis and Doc Rivers do not get along (imagine, Doc Rivers not getting along with someone!). That’s the one thing that I could see getting Portis moved. I don’t think that the Bucks can afford to be financially frugal as long as Giannis is the face of the franchise, so the Bucks are only going to make moves that at least appear to improve the roster, price be damned. That’s the trick to a Bucks deal. Does Huerter or Barnes for Portis and Connaughton (among their worse value contracts) make them better? And if the answer is no, would you throw in Ellis (or Devin Carter) to sweeten the deal, and would they bite?

RikSmits
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June 28, 2024 10:39 am
Reply to  RobHessing

When can we trade Carter, by the way?
(NOT that I am eager to get rid of him; just curious)

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 10:43 am
Reply to  RikSmits

I think that you can trade him at any time before he has signed. Not sure if you can trade him right away after he has signed.

andy_sims
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June 28, 2024 11:22 am
Reply to  RobHessing

Good points, all.

To get Portis and Patrick, I think that I would include Ellis or Carter, despite how good I think that both are going to be.It’s a tough one for sure, and I imagine McNair would rather include almost anything else as a sweetener.

Given the difference that Keon makes on defense, and a reasonable assumption about Carter’s, I think I’d prefer to send Monk than either. A lot of Kings players saw the light on the defensive end once Ellis began getting significant minutes. Monk may also show improvement, but I’d be willing to bet that Carter will be a better defender on day one than Monk will ever be.

Factor in salaries, and the medicine goes down a lot easier. For the record, I adore Malik Monk, he’s an absolute joy to watch most of the time. If there’s a way to get the return we want without Ellis, Carter, or Monk going out, it would be an absolute coup, but it doesn’t seem realistic in the least.

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 11:28 am
Reply to  andy_sims

I can’t shake the feeling that Ellis is going to be the camp animal this year. Dude got a taste last year, and I think that he is going to take camp very seriously – and personally.

UpgradedToQuestionable
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June 28, 2024 2:16 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

Yeah – I also believe that Keon will be Neon, so to speak, moving forward. He’s got the tools and, as you put it, the taste.

In the short stint of starter minutes, he made a real difference in winning. And his price point is amazeballs. The kid (hey, I’m old, he’s a kid, they all are) is a winner. And a tenacious one as he worked and earned his spot and I don’t know if that gleam will glitter quite the same for another squad. I consider him a part of TKC – The King’s Core – which is Five, not Four (Fox, Sabonis, Keegan, Monk and Keon). Now that they have a secure core, I can’t imagine McNair willing to split that up.

I wanna feel the same for the shiny new toy (Devin Carter) but we’ll see.

Just my opinion: Pat Cannaughton would be a fine replacement of Duarte/Huerter – he plays tough D, he’s a tough dude, and he shoots at a career 35% 3FG. He is apparently also better at baseball than Michael Jordan. He was 8th in min per game for a Championship team, and has a ring. He played 76 games last year. He is who we all wanted Chris Duarte to be and hope Colby Jones to be. He is due $19M/2 yrs (Trey Lyles money). Bobby Portis, Jr. is owed $26M/2 yrs.

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 2:24 pm

Yeah, it’s not that Cannaughton is bad – he’s just the odd man out in this scenario when you look at how Milwaukee can improve their roster, and his contract (while not overly onerous) is one of the reasons why.

murraytant
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June 28, 2024 4:57 pm
Reply to  andy_sims

IMO you value Portis too much.

murraytant
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June 28, 2024 4:55 pm
Reply to  andy_sims

if you are playing against them who do you fear? BI, Kuzma, Grant, Portis, John Collins?

murraytant
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June 28, 2024 4:56 pm
Reply to  murraytant

not fear to get punched (Portis wins that) but fear to beat you on the court?

murraytant
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June 28, 2024 4:54 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

Agree. Would want him more than any of those. He might slow down the offense, he might effect spacing since he has a limited 3 point shot BUT he can go get a bucket.
NOP don’t want to pay him full option- they want to build around that tank zion. They gave up Nance, will lose Jonas and Marshall but got back a true PG- they are shifting direction. Could re-coup the draft pick losses for d. Murray with a Kings trade. and maybe get back Huerter.to replace D. Daniels. Took a center in the draft.

RikSmits
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June 28, 2024 9:40 am
Reply to  swipa

Are you talking to me?
Never mind, I’ll give my thoughts any way.

Purely from a player perspective, I prefer him by much over Kuzma.

When you look at the contract and team control perspective, the preference may flip. A one year rental to lose him or a massive overpay to keep him worry me.

But I have serious doubts that Kuzma moves the needle, and I often prefer to pay more for something good than less for something that doesn’t really give me anything.

TheGrantNapear
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June 28, 2024 10:02 am
Reply to  swipa

I have a feeling BI ends up on the Rockets. They’re looking for star caliber players (BI is an all star) and they have the picks and players to make a trade happen. I don’t think the Kings have the assets to make the trade.

DCKing
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June 28, 2024 1:40 pm
Reply to  swipa

No thank, as he is unlikely to re-sign. He’s too expensive now and in the future, and does not rebound or play difference to actually pass the test of what Brown and Monte want. This is also why I say no to Kuzma, an inefficient offensive player.

Portis, Wendell Carter, and Collins are the best players for a Sabonis-led team. If we get one of them and J. Smith, Achiwa, Stewart, etc, then we are much better competitors without tax problems.

UpgradedToQuestionable
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June 28, 2024 2:23 pm
Reply to  DCKing

oooh, I like WCJ! My only problem with him is that he has averaged 53 games a season in his 6 years in the League. (I wanted him over the other Duke Blue Devil that was picked at the #2 spot in the 2018 draft, but not at #2, of course).

I prefer him over the similarly stat-ed John Collins because he can subbed in at the 5 to give Domas some rest, and still fits as a starting PF. But his health is a concern.

NorCalKingsFan
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June 30, 2024 10:07 pm

I think one problem in trying to get WCJ out of ORL is that the only other player under contract who can play C is J. Issac (unless you count Banchero).

Hobby916
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June 28, 2024 9:30 am

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SlamsonsRollerskates
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June 28, 2024 9:37 am

Wonder twin powers, activate!

petergriffin
Jman1949
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June 28, 2024 11:01 am

Wonder twin! We’re getting Kris Murray?!

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 11:02 am
Reply to  Jman1949

I want to get Kris just so that we can nickname him “12 fouls.”

UpgradedToQuestionable
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June 28, 2024 2:24 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

and we can blast this .gif to ad nauseum death
comment image

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 2:30 pm

They could be like Taylor and Tyler Rogers, and Kris has to shoot everything underhanded.

BuiltToSpill
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June 28, 2024 2:32 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

I feel like submarine shots might not be very effective in the NBA, even if he can throw a mean slider.

Last edited 7 months ago by BuiltToSpill
Nemanja_Business
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June 28, 2024 10:21 am

Who are the best players available to target with the full MLE?

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 10:34 am

The full MLE market appears to be pretty sparse to me. I mean, even if I look at from a non-Kings centric perspective:

Maybe Kentavious Caldwell-Pope? Not the perfect fit for the KIngs, but he’s probably full MLE level.

I will be interested to see what the offers are like for Tobias Harris. My guess is that they will be more like what Barnes and guys like Rui Hachimura got last year, which was above the MLE.

Davis Bertans is probably under a full MLE, and maybe by quite a bit.

I have no idea what the market what will be like for Miles Bridges.

Tyus Jones might be a full MLE guy, and he does play guard, so…

RikSmits
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June 28, 2024 10:37 am
Reply to  RobHessing

Tyus Jones might be a full MLE guy, and he does play guard, so…

comment image

outrider
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June 28, 2024 10:40 am
Reply to  RobHessing

When I was looking in to all the exception stuff yesterday, it looked like Bobby Portis’ salary fit right in, which is nice, but the Bucks have to be willing to move him. Would you take him for the full MLE?

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 10:42 am
Reply to  outrider

I don’t think that the Bucks would, because it does not improve the team, and the MLE options on the market would likely not make them better than they are with Portis. But that does not take into consideration if they could parlay the MLE into another trade, I suppose.

BuiltToSpill
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June 28, 2024 12:01 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

Full MLE and a future pick? Guessing it would defeat the purpose of their reducing salary for us to offer them a Huerter or Barnes, right?

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 12:05 pm
Reply to  BuiltToSpill

The catch for me is that it does not improve the team now, and that could make for cranky Giannis. Now, if the move enables them to improve the roster in another way this year, sure. But the question then becomes, who can the Bucks sign via the MLE that is more impactful for them than Bobby Portis?

Last edited 7 months ago by RobHessing
Jack
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June 28, 2024 5:48 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

How about Jalen Smith or Naji Marshall?

jlandweh
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June 28, 2024 10:52 am

Some other names that could be (and maybe some can add more)…these are names that jumped out to me from NBA Free Agent Tracker. I know some of these are going to make more than the MLE – I just wanted to throw them out there. Maybe a little sign and trade creativity.

**Please feel free to correct me if I’m wrong on these guy’s free agent status.

Precious Achiuwa
Isaiah Hartenstein (might get more)
Miles Bridges (or maybe not depending on your thoughts on his awful actions)
Jalen Smith
Cam Payne
Monte Morris
Spencer Dinwiddie
Tyus Jones (might get more)
Mo Wagner
Jonas Valucinas
Tobias Harris
Cody Zeller
Jose Alvarado
Saddiq Bey
Robert Covington

Last edited 7 months ago by jlandweh
RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 11:01 am
Reply to  jlandweh

Naji Marshall is also kind of interesting.

SavageBeast
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June 28, 2024 11:40 am
Reply to  RobHessing

Agree on Naj. Seems like an interesting fit.

murraytant
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June 28, 2024 5:01 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

yes and Caleb Martin

Jack
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June 28, 2024 5:51 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

Inreally like him.

andy_sims
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June 28, 2024 11:40 am
Reply to  jlandweh

Naji feels like he’d fit perfectly with what we have and what we need.

My understanding is that there’s something already in place to keep Bridges in Charlotte, so we’re unlikely to need to agonize about the pros and cons.

Sue me, but Mo Wagner is trash.

If Tobias can be had at the MLE, I would think pretty hard on that one, but I’d say that Rob is right about him being offered more elsewhere.

Jalen Smith feels like he could end up being a real steal, if he can be had. Payne is one of those guys that every time I watch him, I can’t believe how effective he is, and I find myself infuriated. Alas, he is a guard.

Bey’s shooting was a bit off last season, but his career average from three is 35.1%. Not great, but serviceable, and he defends and gets boards.

If Covington has anything left in the tank, he could provide some vet leadership, but I don’t have any idea if he can still bring it.

A lot of other interesting names on the list that could prove helpful, but I’d trust the far-better informed to make that call.

UpgradedToQuestionable
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June 28, 2024 2:32 pm
Reply to  andy_sims

Sue me, but Mo Wagner is trash.

The Kings could get a collection of brothers, relatives that are the side car to their main engine siblings.

Mo (not Franz) Wagner
Jalen (not Jaden) McDaniels
Justin AND Aaron (not Jrue) Holiday
Kris (not Keegan) Murray
Seth (not Steph) Curry
and, of course
Thanasis (not Giannis) Antetokounmpo

Just a thought while you are waiting…

(because what else is there to do?)

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 2:37 pm

Andy wants Les Wagner, not Mo Wagner.

BuiltToSpill
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June 28, 2024 2:48 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

The ashes of Robin Gibb in our trophy case and let’s bring Adrienne Maloof on as a minority owner!

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 2:59 pm
Reply to  BuiltToSpill

Tommie Aaron. Ozzie Canseco. Collect the whole set!

Carl
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June 28, 2024 6:24 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

Tommie Aaron. Ozzie Canseco. Collect the whole set!

Jim Belushi’d. My brother Brian is all right though.

andy_sims
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June 28, 2024 4:00 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

This guy gets it.

Jack
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June 28, 2024 5:53 pm
Reply to  andy_sims

Andy Bey can’t defend a dead rabbit.

Jack
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June 28, 2024 5:56 pm
Reply to  Jack

Naji Marshall would be a great fit.

Carl
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June 28, 2024 6:22 pm
Reply to  andy_sims

Bey’s shooting was a bit off last season, but his career average from three is 35.1%. Not great, but serviceable, and he defends and gets boards.

Noting that this is FAR better than Kyle Kuzma’s career average from three.

Adamsite
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June 28, 2024 6:34 pm
Reply to  Carl

Right? Kuzma is not a 3pt shooter. He’s a gifted mid-range and downhill scorer, but I do not consider him a shooter. I really don’t like the idea of him next to Sabonis for that reason.

nonstripedzebra
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June 28, 2024 2:03 pm
Reply to  jlandweh

I like a few names on that list but would be very intrigued with Jalen Smith. Checks a few boxes with also some signs of improvement. We need some interior and weakside defensive help desperately, along with some skywalkers with length for the other end. Dig in on some per 36 numbers, his age at 24 and at least a few signs of some stretchability theres some inklings of a player who may start to play his best basketball over this next deal in the right situation.

Jack
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June 28, 2024 5:58 pm

And he shots the three at 40% or a little better.

9sac8
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June 29, 2024 6:32 pm
Reply to  jlandweh

Cam Payne, Precious Achiuwa…or Hartenstein hands down.

outrider
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June 28, 2024 10:31 am

Any thoughts on Brandon Ingram? I read the below a few minutes ago in a discussion about his status with the Pels. Seems like he’s been hurt a lot.

The Sacramento Kings could be a team to emerge for Ingram as they have been seeking upgrades on the wing and would have matching salary in Harrison Barnes and Kevin Huerter. 

outrider
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June 28, 2024 10:32 am
Reply to  outrider

Looks like it’s already been asked!

RikSmits
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June 28, 2024 10:36 am

Jack and co, rejoice!

Sources: Indiana Pacers forward Jalen Smith is declining his $5.4 million player option and will enter unrestricted free agency, @hoopshype

has learned. Smith shot a career-high 59.2 percent from the field and 42.4 percent from 3-point range for the Pacers last season.

https://x.com/MikeAScotto/status/1806739862042911024

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 10:39 am
Reply to  RikSmits

The BAE won’t be enough to get him, but considering the options, I might be tempted to throw a lot of the MLE bag at him.

RikSmits
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June 28, 2024 10:46 am
Reply to  RobHessing

I’m still wondering why he was so low in the Pacers’ pecking order, with these stats. Something about him worries me, but he may be worth the gamble.

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 11:00 am
Reply to  RikSmits

I think it was a numbers thing. Along the front line, he was behind Turner, Siakam (albeit for a short portion of the season), Toppin, and Isaiah Jackson.

He is not quite the floor spacer that Toppin is, and he’s not the banger that Jackson is, so his role may have been specific and surgical?

Adamsite
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Nostradumbass 14
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June 28, 2024 11:18 am
Reply to  RobHessing

Yeah, I really believe he was just lost in the shuffle once Siakam came along. His numbers dropped significantly once the trade happened, yet he still finished with more minutes than Jackson.

eddie41
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June 28, 2024 11:34 am
Reply to  RikSmits

I have not watched a lot of Jalen Smith, but he seems to be a practical target which would be less of a gamble than other possible targets. it would not require a future first to get him. he has positional versatility at the 4 and 5. he has some role versatility on offense. he has more switchability on D than some other bigs. using the MLE, he would not break the bank.

Adamsite
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June 28, 2024 11:42 am
Reply to  eddie41

I’d start with a 3 year $30M offer and go from there. Definitely 3 years, hopefully with a TO for the 3rd, to get his Full Bird Rights. A deal like that could end up being a steal or a minor annoyance depending on how things play out.

eddie41
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June 28, 2024 11:49 am
Reply to  Adamsite

no objection here.

i also wonder if he could further improve by wearing contact lenses for increased peripheral vision. just based on my own personal experience wearing eye glasses while driving a car.

Hobby916
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June 28, 2024 12:48 pm
Reply to  eddie41

What about the cognitive neuroscience that Jalen Smith has? Is he a high level processor on the basketball court?

eddie41
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June 28, 2024 4:00 pm
Reply to  Hobby916

re: processing, it appears normal. but as I said before, I have not watched a lot of him.

Jack
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June 28, 2024 6:05 pm
Reply to  Hobby916

Good IQ.

Jack
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June 28, 2024 6:04 pm
Reply to  eddie41

He has mentioned in a couple of takes than he would prefer glasses oover lenses.

jwalker1395
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June 28, 2024 1:25 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

Why toy with him? What are you gonna realistically do with that leftover $2.9M/yr? I think just throwing the full MLE at him will show him a level of seriousness and commitment that would be extremely persuasive. He and his agent will know that’s the max we can offer and have the option to take it or leave it. I just see no value in hardballing him over what are peanuts by NBA standards.

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 1:37 pm
Reply to  jwalker1395

Remember, a full MLE is now up to $55m: $12.9m / $13.5m / $14.2m / $14.8m. The difference between a 3/$30m investment and a 4/$55m investment is (checks calculator) $25m. And the $10.7m over the first three years, while not a back breaker, can be the difference between being over the 1st apron and not being over the 1st apron, which could be the difference between Monte having to attach picks to give away a player and not having to attach picks and give away a player.

Last edited 7 months ago by RobHessing
jwalker1395
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June 28, 2024 1:40 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

The first apron is probably a consideration for Vivek, but if you want to win you’re gonna have to pay for talent and I’d prefer the team bite the bullet on the tax than miss out on a PERFECT fit in Smith. But then again, it’s not my money.

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 1:44 pm
Reply to  jwalker1395

Yep, and it’s Vivek. And the A’s loom large in the background.

AnybodyButBagley
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June 28, 2024 2:15 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

That is Vivek’s problem. Not the fans problem. There is a glaring obvious need for this team and he has done nothing to change that.

Pay up.

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 2:22 pm

There is fantasy and there is reality. Vivek is a reality.

The owners that view their teams as toys afford themselves (and their fans) a much wider margin for error. The owners that manage it as a business narrow that margin considerably. Teams like SA and OKC are managed well enough to find success in such an environment, and I’m sure that Vivek has put that in Monte’s ear at some point or another.

The next time that this ownership pays tax for a player will be the first time that this ownership pays tax for a player. And it is as likely as not that it will never happen.

AnybodyButBagley
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June 28, 2024 2:46 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

Yeah…I get that.

Why do all the fans accept it?

BuiltToSpill
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June 28, 2024 2:50 pm

You’re right, let’s picket and camp in DoCo until this shit changes!

AnybodyButBagley
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June 28, 2024 2:55 pm
Reply to  BuiltToSpill

Let me know when they come out talk to you.

BuiltToSpill
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June 28, 2024 3:04 pm

I’ve expressed my outrage directly to Vivek. I said “Vivek, I simply won’t stand for this! I know that every single other Kings fan except for AnybodyButBagley is totally content with it, but I just don’t care!” We’ll see how he responds to my outrage.

AnybodyButBagley
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June 28, 2024 3:13 pm
Reply to  BuiltToSpill

Appreciate that.

Why won’t you show your initial level of commitment and go stand there?

BuiltToSpill
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June 28, 2024 3:20 pm

Your contribution is always epic.

The relevance is impeccable.

AnybodyButBagley
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June 28, 2024 3:22 pm
Reply to  BuiltToSpill

Read your post and google the word relevance.

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 3:04 pm

There is at least some residual over the fact that he saved this team from moving to Seattle. But he has burned through most of that goodwill. Bottom line, the Kings really are still the only game in town.

AnybodyButBagley
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June 28, 2024 3:22 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

He definitely did do that. They are the only game in town. This doesn’t mean the fans should gladly accept mediocrity for the next decade.

Look what he got in Ellis!! OOOOHHHH AHHHH

…shiny object

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 3:30 pm

Well, first off, I don’t think that it’s “all fans.” Second, there are those that are not happy with it, but take more of a “sum of its parts” perspective. To wit, I’d like this team to be better, while also maintaining a level of happiness that they are still the Sacramento Kings.

I can’t imagine anyone having an issue over the signing or playing of Keon Ellis. Literally no downside to it whatsoever. That does not solve the issue at the stretch 4 or at wing depth, but it is also not the reason that we still have those problems. It’s such a great story, and while it does not erase those issues, should it not still be celebrated? Is the thought that fans should just be miserable about everything and ignore the good stuff until the other things are fixed? Because I think that most Kings fans are multi-taskers and can digest the good and the bad, without having to pick just one or the other. I think that overall the fanbase rocks. Your mileage may vary.

Last edited 7 months ago by RobHessing
AnybodyButBagley
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June 28, 2024 3:35 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

No downside at all to Ellis.

Ellis is not the win this fan base needs to cling to and accept as the ultimate success. Winning playoff games and contending for championships means something.

An occasional average player from a two way deal shouldn’t even hit the radar.

I have no fear that Vivek or the NBA will move this team. Get over the idea that “we are lucky to have them.” It is ok to win.

See all of the other NBA franchises.

Frustrating watching this off season unfold knowing that the true need to change this team isn’t a factor.

The draft pick was great…for a guard. I think we got a great player. We didn’t get the piece this team needs to win.

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 3:49 pm

Keon Ellis is a great story. Good for him. Moving on.

It’s not a fear of them moving. It’s an appreciation of them not moving. Again, I think that most fans can weigh the appreciation of what Vivek did in keeping the team here against the overall lack of success of his ownership tenure. The notes seem about right to me. There are fans on one end of the scale that will be forever grateful. There are fans on the other end that want him to sell the team yesterday. And then there is the majority of the fanbase that falls somewhere in between those two extremes.

ALL of the other NBA franchises? Does that include Detroit? Charlotte? The Wizards?

I too am very concerned that the glaring needs of this roster will go unaddressed for another season. I will not be happy. It will not make me less happy about the Kings being here or Keon Ellis, however. It will make me unhappy that we have an unbalanced roster that is unable to compete at the NBA’s higher levels.

I’m fine with Carter as a player. I wish that the asset that was the draft pick was used to address the more glaring roster needs, and the front office has yet to prove to me that they are capable and nimble enough to navigate the off season market. There is time for them to prove me wrong, but I will likely feel this way until they give me a reason not to.

As of 6/28/24, I don’t think that I am looking at a serious playoff contender. Time is still left to change that, and more importantly, I am often wrong. But I sure understand the concern and consternation, to a point.

AnybodyButBagley
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June 28, 2024 3:54 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

There is no reason that Sacramento should be compared to Detroit, Charlotte, or the Wizards. But…they are because of their record setting streak.

I honestly have no issue with Vivek owning this team. He needs to be actively involved again. He needs to realize that the whole world sees something his front office isn’t fixing. Please meddle with this team again Vivek.

As of 6-28-24 we have the same team except we swapped out an undersized guard for a rookie guard.

Maybe this one can score?

How much will he score playing behind Fox and Monk?

The obvious reality isn’t being dealt with.

Nemanja_Business
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June 28, 2024 5:35 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

Who would you b have picked at 13? Knect?

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 5:51 pm

I would have preferred to use it as a trade asset. Value unknown, obviously.

AnybodyButBagley
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June 28, 2024 9:22 pm

Trade thirteen and other players for a power forward. I understand we got a good player. We don’t need that specific player.

Use the pick to get something we need.

BuiltToSpill
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June 28, 2024 3:42 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

This is where I land. Walking and chewing gum at the same time. I like the Ellis narrative AND I’m frustrated over the lack of an effective PF.

I’m a huge SF Giants fan. I followed them from the 70’s to the 2000’s (and still do), figuring there was a chance I could go an entire lifetime without ever seeing a championship. There have been Cubs and Red Sox fans who literally never saw a championship in their lifetimes.

When the Giants won it all in 2010, it was truly delightful, but it didn’t change my day to day life in any meaningful way other than getting to rub it in the faces of Dodger fan friends. Outside of that, life, family, work, and my hobbies all went on as though nothing changed. I’m not any different as a person, based on the three Giants championships I’ve seen.

I feel bad for people who define themselves by whether or not a bunch of grown men they have no relationship to, who throw a ball at a hoop, stick, or person, have won a championship or not. I’d love nothing more than for my hometown to win a championship but I don’t define myself in that way. But it’s downright false to think that means I accept mediocrity. In fact, it shows a small-mindedness that I can’t get on board with.

AnybodyButBagley
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June 28, 2024 3:49 pm
Reply to  BuiltToSpill

You do have basic literacy skills.

Appreciate this post.

BuiltToSpill
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June 28, 2024 3:55 pm

I have many leatherbound books and my house smells of rich mahogany.

AnybodyButBagley
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June 28, 2024 4:02 pm
Reply to  BuiltToSpill

I have always pictured a drooling mop haired person in a blue tent on K street.

For you…I am happy that isn’t your reality.

Last edited 7 months ago by AnybodyButBagley
BuiltToSpill
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June 28, 2024 4:09 pm

How charitable. Nope, just a nerd tech management professional. I don’t ever think about what type of person you are, to be honest. I do frequently wonder whether you are an actual Kings fan, however.

AnybodyButBagley
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June 28, 2024 4:13 pm
Reply to  BuiltToSpill

Been a Kings for a while now. Kansas City was home. They followed me West.

Prefer that they win a few games now and then.

murraytant
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June 28, 2024 5:05 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

IMO Kings need to go for home run. Jose Canseco and not Ozzie. J. Smith is Ozzie

AnybodyButBagley
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June 28, 2024 9:23 pm
Reply to  murraytant

It is time to swing the bat.

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June 28, 2024 2:27 pm
Reply to  jwalker1395

Kings still need a back center like Len and ideally, another wing. Maybe leave some room for a vet minimum guys.

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June 28, 2024 2:54 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

I think you have to bid more than Dallas can to get him. They also freed up enough to use the NTP midlevel extension. But I think they have a little less than we do available. My guess is we’d need to use our full MLE.

SavageBeast
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June 28, 2024 3:00 pm
Reply to  SavageBeast

D’oh, I was thinking of Jones. Who would also be interesting to go after.

murraytant
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June 28, 2024 5:07 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

Goga !

Jack
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June 28, 2024 6:03 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

Monty are you listening. Go get him.

Jack
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June 28, 2024 6:08 pm
Reply to  Jack

Just asking. Would it be possible to get Naji Marshall with the full BAE?

Adamsite
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June 28, 2024 6:35 pm
Reply to  Jack

Doubtful. He’s gonna want more than that.

King4life
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June 28, 2024 11:49 am
Reply to  RikSmits

Probably because he’s not that good? I really don’t understand the obsession with him. I’ve heard his name from kings fans and media. You aren’t getting better adding guys who can’t play in the playoffs. Smith was played off the court.

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 12:00 pm
Reply to  King4life

Context: Smith saw his time slashed with the acquisition of Pascal Siakam. Max contract Pascal Siakam. And playing behind Myles Turner. And Obi Toppin. And it’s not like Indy waived him – he opted out of his $5.4m option.

23 years old (or as we say in Monteland, rookie age!). Basically Keon Ellis and Keegan Murray age.

I don’t know if he is better than Trey Lyles. But he is five years younger, so there is probably a little more chance for upside.

Maybe he’s not that good. And maybe it was a numbers crunch. And maybe he’s young and has not become the player that he is destined to be. Or maybe he has.

Who do you like?

UpgradedToQuestionable
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June 28, 2024 3:04 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

Obi Toppin is a RFA. Why not chase Obi in place of Jalen Smith?

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 3:05 pm

Indy can match. Jalen Smith is untethered.

RobHessing
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June 28, 2024 3:06 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

Also, with the cap space that Indy has, they easily match on an MLE offer for Toppin.

BuiltToSpill
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June 28, 2024 3:09 pm

If the Kings offer money to an RFA, are there issues with having that money unavailable for other offers until the original team makes an offer or declines to offer? I seem to recall that being an impediment to making an offer to an RFA in the past.