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Scott Perry discusses relationship with ownership, decision on head coach, roster construction

At his introductory press conference, the new general manager highlighted the need for a true point guard, more athleticism, and a tough-minded, accountable culture.
By | 102 Comments | Apr 23, 2025

Scott Perry held his introductory press conference Wednesday as the new general manager of the Sacramento Kings. During the conference Perry spoke of a vision rooted in identity, accountability and sustained success.

That is all wonderful and important, but the real key to his success in Sacramento is largely going to depend on his relationship with owner Vivek Ranadive and how much power he is truly given to make basketball decisions. Perry did address it to some extent, saying he has been tasked with leading the charge and making critical decisions.

Other important elements to his tenure involve the decision on retaining Doug Christie as the head coach or finding someone else, and the roster construction.

Let’s take a look at his comments on everything.

On his relationship with Ranadive 

“Obviously, Vivek owns the team, and I’ve worked with Vivek before, and I enjoy a very healthy and positive relationship with him. But make no mistake, he has empowered me to lead this team and make critical decisions. Now, will I talk to him often about different things and this team? Absolutely, it only makes sense. There is a saying that will be prevalent throughout my tenure here and within our office: I want diversity of thought, but with unity and purpose. And that is what we are going to be led by, and so that starts with my relationship with Vivek”

“In my conversations with Vivek, it is clear what the mandate was: He wants me to come in here and lead this charge, bring my expertise to this building, to this organization, to build that sustainable platform. And he has pledged his support and his resources to be able to do that.”

On Doug Christie:

“Well, you are looking at a guy who is a veteran of so many coaching searches I can’t even count them right now. But what I can tell you is I’ve spent time with Doug Christie already. I first met Doug Christie when he was a player at Toronto. I admired him as a player in his career; I’ve watched him this year from afar in terms of his ability to have a presence on the court, I think he’s made a connection with the players. We’ve had a few conversations up to this point, he was one of the first people I met with yesterday when I got into town. I’ve only been here a little longer than 24 hours. With that said, my phone has incessantly rang for interest in this job so I am going to have a few more conversations in and around about this job and hopefully I can come to some sort of resolution within the next week or so in terms of having a decision and announcement to inform everybody.”

What he is looking for in a coach: “Someone who is going to be committed to having a tough-minded, defensive-oriented, a team that shares the basketball, a team that is disciplined, professional, accountable – so we’ve got to be aligned there. The coach has got to be aligned with that goal.”

On the current roster:

“There is some talent here. There is an obvious need, and I think everyone in this room probably would agree to it, that there is not a true point guard on the roster. Also, as I assess it from afar, I think we need to add more length and athleticism to this group to enhance some of the talent that is here.”

Speaking of the roster, an older video clip of Perry discussing Zach LaVine and how his game hasn’t translated to winning has been circling lately:

Here is what Perry had to say on that:

“I have had a chance to speak with Zach, and I knew Zach a little bit well before I took this job when he was a young player at UCLA when he was coming out, obviously scouted him and watched him a lot. Terrific talent, athletic, a career 40% three point shooter, and he and I had a good conversation. So, my job now, to help put pieces around him and others to enhance his ability to start winning. And that is what you are getting at with the comment that I made because it was a reflection on him not having won as much. It was nothing personal, and what I enjoy with my relationship with all players, that’s why so many of them reached out to me, because they know, OK, I might not always agree with him, but he’s going to shoot me straight. They know that I am going to provide radical candor, surrounded by radical love. They know it’s coming from a good place.”

Perry said the right things and is a very personable and likeable man. I wish him the best and hope that he gets the authority to follow through on the things he wants to do to improve the team.

Watch the full press conference below.

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rff
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rff
April 23, 2025 3:59 pm

If Jeff Van Gundy reps called and he is interested the next head coach of the Kings would be Van Gundy.

RPO
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RPO
April 23, 2025 4:05 pm
Reply to  rff

I’d be down with that. Not sure JVG would want to enter this quagmire though.

ajonez81
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April 23, 2025 9:24 pm
Reply to  rff

Van Gundy would be legit and get my approval, hopefully he still has something in the tank.

RikSmits
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April 24, 2025 4:29 am
Reply to  rff

Van Gundy is only allowed to apply by fax via Kinko’s.

scottymusprime
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April 24, 2025 8:01 am
Reply to  RikSmits

That’s a deep cut, and I like it.

Rickyflip
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April 24, 2025 8:44 am
Reply to  scottymusprime

I’m a Stan for this deep cut…

RPO
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RPO
April 23, 2025 4:03 pm

I wish him the best and hope that he gets the authority to follow through on the things he wants to do to improve the team.

Hear, hear. But this is like the 4th or 5th GM in Vivek’s tenure, so he goes through them at a fast rate. I expect Scoperry will meet the same fate as his predecessors – crappy on-court product and eventual removal/replacement. At some point the local and national media conversion about the team’s success or failure has to be about the person driving the vehicle, not the front seat passenger.

Last edited 1 month ago by RPO
RPO
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RPO
April 23, 2025 4:16 pm
Reply to  RPO

And 1 – this quote didn’t make me feel very good:

I want diversity of thought, but with unity and purpose. And that is what we are going to be led by, and so that starts with my relationship with Vivek

I read this as admitting that Vivek makes the final decisions.

Amonk81
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April 23, 2025 8:23 pm
Reply to  RPO

Yup. Same as it ever was. Vivek is a piece of shit who has yet to give up power. Will he now? Doubt it.

It doesn’t sound like Perry’s gonna do much of a coaching search. I’d be shocked if it’s not Doug.

This looks like the same old shit.

Hobby916
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April 24, 2025 7:43 am
Reply to  RPO

I heard it as thinking of different ways to meet the goals of the team, which sounded like it was being defensive minded and sharing the basketball. Sitting in a room and thinking of the ways to get to that point, whether it’s trading player X, signing a different player, etc.

If someone wants an offensive only player, that doesn’t show unity and purpose in the goals that were stated for the identity of the team.

CastlePeak
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April 24, 2025 12:13 pm
Reply to  RPO

Nothing against Doug as a coach, but if Perry retains him that’s all we need to know and will confirm that Perry is simply a well paid stooge to provide cover for Vivek to continue running the King’s basketball operations. As the team’s poor performance continues, Doug will be fired by the end of next season, Perry will then follow him out the door some time in the next few years. Wash, rinse, repeat.

Kfan
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April 23, 2025 4:28 pm

I hope ScoPe is the GM we need not the GM we deserve.

Adamsite
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Nostradumbass 14
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Nostradumbass 14
April 23, 2025 4:57 pm

So Vivek wasn’t even there for the introductory conference of his new GM?

Klam
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April 23, 2025 5:09 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

Remember when he was at every press conference in the first few years as owner? I don’t even remember when’s the last time he was at one.

Sacto_J
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April 23, 2025 5:14 pm
Reply to  Klam

I wouldn’t want my face associated with this shit storm, particularly, either. I have no doubt should Perry get us back into winning ways tho, the Dismissive Little Chap will be front and center with whichever celebrity du jour he’s incentivized to come out and grace us peasants, in order to make sure we understand how cool and hip we (he) are (is) again…

discocricket
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April 23, 2025 5:18 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

Of course not. Now that he’s on blast from local media (notice how many questions were directly or indirectly about Vivek meddling) after huge fail of a season, he’s hiding behind his minions. What a small small man.

Amonk81
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April 23, 2025 8:24 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

He is such a terrible owner.

Marty
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April 23, 2025 5:09 pm

But make no mistake, he has empowered me to lead this team

We’re not the ones making a mistake.

Amonk81
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April 23, 2025 8:25 pm
Reply to  Marty

Isn’t this exactly what McNair said, and every other GM before that?

Sacto_J
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April 23, 2025 5:15 pm

Welcome to Basketball Hell, Perry.
#goodluckwiththat

Last edited 1 month ago by Sacto_J
macdoogs
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April 23, 2025 5:58 pm

Well I do like that he addressed the need for a true point and to add more length to the roster. My biggest purple colored glasses hope is that he is one of those voices who vivek actually listens to. He was there to help vlade before so I have to assume what he says holds some weight but like always we shall see. Would love to know how the coaching search is actually going down behind the scenes

Adamsite
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Nostradumbass 14
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April 23, 2025 6:00 pm
Reply to  macdoogs

I too am glad he came right out and said this team needs a true PG. There likely won’t be one to get one through the draft, unless the Kings get a pick via trade. Free agency is limited to the MLE in terms of paying for one. I could see the Perry targeting one of the Jones brothers, who aren’t very big, but are true PGs. Then there is getting one via trade. Hit up Orlando, Perry. Cole Anthony and/or Anthony Black in a DDR package is my dream at the moment.

Who would you all like to see as a realistic PG?

King4life
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April 23, 2025 6:40 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

I have to give you credit for being on the Anthony Black bandwagon all season long. You might even be driving it at this point. I was impressed with him in the few Magic games I’ve seen.

I think Monk or Levine would actually be a great fit for Orlando. They could desperately use shooting and shot creation from their guards.

Not sure who else is out there.

Jack
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April 24, 2025 7:15 am
Reply to  King4life

I mentioned 2 more in above comment.

Klam
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April 23, 2025 6:48 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

I skimmed through your comment real quick and thought at first you said Perry could be targeting one of the Jonas brothers.

Adamsite
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Nostradumbass 14
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April 23, 2025 8:37 pm
Reply to  Klam

Well, there is a non-zero chance that one of the Jonas brothers might be better a PG than any current PG on the Kings.

RobHessing
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April 23, 2025 7:30 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

Bet he would like to undo the Fox trade.

Amonk81
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April 23, 2025 8:26 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

And the Haliburton trade

Kfan
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April 24, 2025 12:21 pm
Reply to  Amonk81

And Every Vlade draft pick except Fox.

NowLoveThemOnceAgain
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April 24, 2025 8:49 pm
Reply to  Amonk81

That one worked out for us…but right now I wish we had Haliburton, TOO!

RikSmits
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April 24, 2025 4:35 am
Reply to  Adamsite

I too am glad he came right out and said this team needs a true PG.

Oh, FFS.

comment image

Jack
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April 24, 2025 7:14 am
Reply to  Adamsite

How about Nembhard? What about Ty Jerome? IMO they both should be considered.

AirmaxPG
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April 24, 2025 9:29 am
Reply to  Adamsite

Been thinking about the possibility of signing Ben Simmons as PG. First of all, could sign him on a dirt cheap deal. Former all-star, still just 28 years old. Always been a solid defender at the position, great size. And first and foremost a playmaker that will serve as table-setter for Lavine. One of the few I can think of that actually complements Zach in the backcourt.

Crazy idea, but maybe a player-first GM in Perry, along with a player-first coach and a notoriously soft local media could actually coax the best version of Simmons here.

TheGrantNapear
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April 24, 2025 9:33 am
Reply to  AirmaxPG

Been thinking about the possibility of signing Ben Simmons as PG. First of all, could sign him on a dirt cheap deal.

Small market teams have to make moves like these. Take a flyer on a distressed asset that has a track record of success, albeit a while ago.
The same fans that were oddly excited about the DDR acquisition (and okay with the compensaation) will say hell no to BS, eventhough we wouldn’t have to give up compensation or pay him much.

Kfan
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April 24, 2025 9:45 am
Reply to  AirmaxPG

I could get behind a starting lineup of Keon, Zach, Keegan, Ben, Domas.

AirmaxPG
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April 24, 2025 12:33 pm
Reply to  Kfan

This could actually work really well. The one thing we would be lacking here is rim protection… Another FA target I’d look at for this offseason in that regard would be Bol Bol.

NorCalKingsFan
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April 24, 2025 6:56 pm
Reply to  Kfan

BS is essentially the PG in this line-up with Domas as the hub, I could get behind that.

andy_sims
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April 24, 2025 12:25 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

Any Orlando guard not called Suggs has my interest.

InigoMontoya
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April 24, 2025 7:33 pm
Reply to  andy_sims

Cory Joseph it is then.

andy_sims
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April 25, 2025 9:37 am
Reply to  InigoMontoya

What can you say about CoJo? He manages to be a glue guy wherever he goes.

Last edited 1 month ago by andy_sims
DNP-CD
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April 23, 2025 6:25 pm
Reply to  macdoogs

The only voices Vivek listens to are the ones in his head telling him that he knows more about basketball than his GM’s, coaches, etc.etc. etc. This team will continue to be a shit show until Vivek leaves.

Last edited 1 month ago by DNP-CD
Carl
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April 24, 2025 9:54 am
Reply to  DNP-CD

To be fair, Vivek also always seems to have at least one outside front office advisor to undermine the person he hired to run the team.

Last edited 1 month ago by Carl
SPTSJUNKIE
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April 24, 2025 9:00 am
Reply to  macdoogs

Agreed. And I think PG is self-evident (any GM would want to add one).

But I am really happy to hear him talk about length and athleticism. If we are going to stick with even 2 of the 3 of the current offensive engines (Sabonis, LaVine, and DDR) then we need to surround them with long, switchable defenders who can shoot (which used to be more rare, but is starting to become pretty tablestakes).

I have no idea how we managed to ignore this for years. It’s so foundational to basically every good NBA team. I mean, it wouldn’t have won us a ring, but if we could have even just switched some role players with Dallas and had a few guys like Naji Marshall, PJ Washington, and Daniel Gafford, we are probably a play-off team. And those are not stars or great players. They are just long, rangy defenders and PJ and to a lesser degree Naji (who actually had an off year from three) who can shoot.

Obviously, if we can get even better versions of those players and guys who are even more versatile like OKC does, that would help us even more.

TheGrantNapear
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April 24, 2025 9:31 am
Reply to  SPTSJUNKIE

This has been my biggest criticism of Monte for years is his lack of effort to get length and athleticism on this team, specifically at the 4 next to Domas. You have to place a stretch, athletic defensive minded 4 next to Domas and Monte made little effort to do that. Yeah I know they’re not easy to find, but Monte had years to make it happen.
Passing on Ware to take another undersized guard was the nail in the coffin for me with Monte, he should have been fired last offseason.

andy_sims
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April 24, 2025 12:32 pm
Reply to  TheGrantNapear

I’m surprised by how much you claim to know about McNair’s level of effort.

Ever work really hard on something and the results sucked?

The facts are that McNair wasn’t able to get the player types you mention, but that’s hardly the same thing as asserting that there was a lack of effort involved in the pursuit. The world is results-based and there’s zero consolation in “nice try,” but stick to what you actually know.

Want2win
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April 24, 2025 2:43 pm
Reply to  andy_sims

I’ve certainly worked on projects and the results suck, I’m currently working on one. The project itself sucks and the results are gonna suck.

andy_sims
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April 25, 2025 9:39 am
Reply to  Want2win

I really can’t get over how relatable that is.

NowLoveThemOnceAgain
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April 24, 2025 8:51 pm
Reply to  TheGrantNapear

A “stretch, athletic defensive minded 4” isn’t Keegan Murray.
Where does Keegan fit in the equation?

Jman1949
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April 24, 2025 10:13 am
Reply to  SPTSJUNKIE

I’d hit up Nico in Dallas, who should be desperate to pair a scorer up with AD ASAP. Even if Kyrie ops into his PO this season, he won’t be ready to attempt a return until at least midway through the season. And with AD preferring to play mostly at PF, PJ has been an awkward fit at SF. DeRozan for PJ and either Naji Marshall (preferably) or Caleb Martin works salary-wise.

Hobby916
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April 24, 2025 10:39 am
Reply to  Jman1949

“Defense wins championships”

-Nico Harrison

Jman1949
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April 24, 2025 11:17 am
Reply to  Hobby916

“Fire Nico!”

-Mavs fans

billoddity
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April 23, 2025 6:10 pm

I’d replace everyone except Doug Christie.

Corneroffense
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April 23, 2025 7:03 pm

Crazy to think that his goal is to ‘build around’ LaVine. I complained about parts of Fox’s game like everybody, but he was our guy. From draft night, we watched him develop, turn into an All Star. Then, our promising PG Hali is traded for Sabonis. And he’s our guy too. We marveled at his motor and his unique, Jokic-light ball handling. And we watched him develop, turn into an All Star. And then Fox was gone. We accepted in advance that the writing was on the wall, and hoped to get back the youth and electricity we lost with Hali… and we got LaVine. A good, overpaid player with ‘25 a night for a losing team’ written all over him. Good luck ‘building around’ that.

SPTSJUNKIE
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April 24, 2025 9:30 am
Reply to  Corneroffense

I will give him the benefit of the doubt here. This is his introductory press conference. He might have some big plans to shake up the roster.

But LaVine’s contract is bad and we may be stuck with him for the season at least, unless we want to attach draft picks to get rid of his contract.

So I can understand Perry playing nice and basically saying he wants to build around LaVine (when directly asked about him) and the current core in general. It’s vanilla press conference-speak.

Now maybe he will. Maybe his hand is being forced or this is why he was given the job. But I also don’t think not insulting or insinuating you are going to trade your current players in your introductory press conference is a bad thing or really says what his actual plans are going to be.

RealMaKoi
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April 24, 2025 11:10 am
Reply to  SPTSJUNKIE

Based on his previous comments when he didn’t have to keep his players from demanding an immediate trade and tanking their value (like when they pissed off Fox), it seems more likely that he kept the silent parts silent.

So, my job now, to help put pieces around [Domas using the players we get when we trade Zach] and others to enhance [Domas’s] ability to start winning.

SelecaoKOJ
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April 23, 2025 8:18 pm

Already red flags. Build around Lavine?! Build what a Sand castle in a hurricane.

Vivek scripted Perry to say this. Lavine is not a leader and this team is going nowhere if he’s the number one option.’

Perry just bashed the Lavine a few yrs ago. I would take scraps tonight unload his contract now.

Only players really worth keeping: Ellis and Murray.

You can’t build any contender with Sabonis, Lavine and ?. Unless Durant or Zion is coming in.

Don’t see that happening.
Kings literally look like a bottom 3 team next year.

Only the Suns and Jazz would be worse.

Blazers and Spurs will pass the Kings in the standings.’

ajonez81
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April 23, 2025 9:26 pm
Reply to  SelecaoKOJ

He is really forced to build around LaVine unless he can pull off a miracle trade like the one that landed him here. I like his talk of length and athleticism also.

Jack
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April 24, 2025 7:19 am
Reply to  SelecaoKOJ

Durant is in his decling years just like DDR. Zion is injured so much he is lucky to last half a year.

RealMaKoi
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April 24, 2025 11:15 am
Reply to  Jack

That’s a reason that Zion will be more affordable. Injuries are from all the extra weight he carries and he won’t listen to anyone telling him what to eat. It’s not an unsolvable problem though. Get the guy some Ozempic and he’ll stop eating McDonald’s without anyone having to say a word to him.

Hobby916
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April 24, 2025 11:19 am
Reply to  RealMaKoi

Zion slimmed down a decent amount. The dude is strong as hell. The injuries come from his game which is all driving to the rim and play above the rim. Landing on that mass, whether more fat or more muscle, is how these injuries are happening. It’s just a lot of weight for the impact when he lands on the court.

andy_sims
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April 24, 2025 12:36 pm
Reply to  Hobby916

You can’t just dismiss the negative impact of titty bar buffets.

RobHessing
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April 24, 2025 12:38 pm
Reply to  andy_sims

The shrimp are virtually zero calories – they cut right through you.

Or so I’ve heard…

TheGrantNapear
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April 24, 2025 8:53 am
Reply to  SelecaoKOJ

Perry said what he said about Lavine in the past and as an extension, he may feel the same about DDR and Domas.
IMO, if Lavine isn’t traded this offseason, it shows Perry is another GM under Vivek’s control.

Hobby916
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April 24, 2025 9:11 am
Reply to  TheGrantNapear

Trading LaVine will probably be a tall task, so I expect him to be on the team next season. If he is traded, my guess is that the return will be bad and people will “lol Kangz”. Damned if you do, damned if you don’t.

andy_sims
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April 24, 2025 12:41 pm
Reply to  TheGrantNapear

On and on about what a negative Lavine is, but then demand that the GM pull off a trade in next few months to prove that he isn’t a pawn?

Which NBA General Manager do you think is naive and uninformed enough to make possible what you demand? I’m not trying to give up a shitload of draft picks to move Lavine.

TheGrantNapear
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April 24, 2025 3:49 pm
Reply to  andy_sims

Lavine’s scoring can be of use for plenty of teams out there so I don’t think he’s untradeable, nor do I think picks would need to be attached to move him.
He’s miscast here as being one of a team’s top two players, on the a team that’s a right fit, he doesn’t need to be that and can be a playoff team’s third or fourth.

Lavine after this season has a player option so technically he could be an expiring.

He’s not untradeable as you seem to think.

Kfan
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April 24, 2025 4:02 pm
Reply to  TheGrantNapear

The problem with him being a team’s 3rd or 4th best player is his salary.

For reference: the 3rd & 4th highest salary on the 3 highest salaried teams:

Phx: 49.2 and 15.6 mil
Min: 31.6 & 23.0 mil
Bos: 30.0 & 29.2 mil

Hard to add 47 mil to that. Maybe you could add him to an OKC and have him expire when you’re ready to extend some youth, but why would they want him?

SelecaoKOJ
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April 23, 2025 8:19 pm

Caron Butler, Sam Cassell, Micah Nori, Taylor Jenkins, etc.

Please no return of Christie as HC

Jack
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April 24, 2025 7:22 am
Reply to  SelecaoKOJ

Why? IMO he did a good job coming in when he did and having the roster to work with. Nobody else could have done better.

TheGrantNapear
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April 24, 2025 8:55 am
Reply to  Jack

There’s a lot of proven HC candidates available this offseason. HCs who have won ships and consistently led their teams to the playoffs. I don’t think DC did enough to supercede the HC that are on offer this offseason, assuming any even want to join this sh!t show.

Last edited 1 month ago by TheGrantNapear
andy_sims
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April 24, 2025 12:42 pm
Reply to  Jack

“Nobody” is an interesting word choice in this context.

ajonez81
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April 23, 2025 9:24 pm

Based on this article I like him a bit so far but it all comes down to decisions and results. Keeping Christie would be a huge mistake and terrible sign for a first move. I’ll give him a chance and see what he can do. I actually love the LaVine clip, telling it like it is.

bjax1
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April 23, 2025 10:10 pm

So I get all the doom and gloom, the same as it ever was stuff. I’m not even disagreeing with that. But let me play voice of hope for a minute. Lavine has always been on a subpar team. Wolves and Bulls. If we can put some length and D around him, trade Deebo, then he can (along with Malik in a secondary role) be “the guy.” I think he is capable of that offensively, and he’s a good enough athlete to be decent defensively. Will it work? I don’t know, but I’m kinda Intrigued to see it play out .

RikSmits
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April 24, 2025 4:38 am
Reply to  bjax1

He’s been a good enough athlete to be decent on D his whole career. Why would he start now?

Jack
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April 24, 2025 7:27 am
Reply to  bjax1

I might agree but besides DDR we also need to trade Sabonis and Monk. Those are the only ones who would bring in talent and or future draft picks. If you don’t trade them then you are getting the same o same o results. With Lavine IMO will still be a Kings basically because of his contract. If for some reason you can trade hill then that’s ok with me.

TheGrantNapear
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April 24, 2025 8:58 am
Reply to  bjax1

Lavine has always been on a subpar team.

Subpar because of Lavine himself, Perry said as much in that quote from the past.
Lavine was by far the highest paid player on CHI, yet somehow them sucking during his tenure was not his fault.

RikSmits
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April 24, 2025 4:32 am

Talk is cheap.
Running a succesful franchise is expensive.

#SellTheTeamVivek

Hobby916
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April 24, 2025 7:53 am

He said what I expected him to say. He did address his thoughts about LaVine. They kind of have to add size and length, so why not do that to help LaVine, and the roster in general? I don’t see LaVine being traded, so might as well improve the roster regardless. Sans LaVine, they still need size and length, along with a more true PG.

I do fully expect Doug to be the HC next season, which is fine. Give the man a staff of his choosing, players that fit the modern NBA, and see what happens. I don’t think a top tier coach is wanting the Kings job. Perry might be receiving calls about the position, but I bet it is not from Jenkins, Malone, Bud, Cassell, JVG, etc.

Proof is in the pudding. Just build a winning team. That’s all that really matters to me.

scottymusprime
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April 24, 2025 8:06 am
Reply to  Hobby916

I’ve cooled significantly on Bud as a coach since the Athletic player survey listed him as one of the worst coaches to play for. There’s probably a reason he’s been driven out of town — even with good records.

Hobby916
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April 24, 2025 9:38 am
Reply to  scottymusprime

I heard some things about him after being fired by the Suns. Big ego, hard to work with, etc.

TheGrantNapear
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April 24, 2025 9:04 am

Based on Perry’s previous comments on Lavine, I have to assume he wants to trade him. The argument he made about Lavine can also be made about DDR.
You have to be a really goofy franchise to trade for two dudes who could never co-exist or win on another team. I think Perry knows that and so if at least one of these two are not moved this offseason, we will know that Vivek is still calling the shots.

I think if Perry had his druthers, he’d have the green light to trade Zach, DDR, Domas and MM and get quite a nice return to rebuild around the young players on the roster. As it stands now, the roster is a bottom 5 roster in the West, possibly even bottom 3 a long with the Jazz and Suns (once they trade KD this offseason). It just makes too much sense to rebuild right now, hopefully Perry can get Vivek to buy in.
And I have to believe Perry is wishing Fox was still a King, if nothing else to have that asset to make a trade that makes sense, unlike the way Monte got shafted in that trade.

RobHessing
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April 24, 2025 10:09 am

I’ve pitched this elsewhere, but Russell Westbrook…

Yes, he comes with his own personality, and he is not without flaws. But Sacramento would be one of the small handful of places where he could be assured the starting PG job. He transformed his game a bit this past season in Denver. He is still a hellacious defender. He can still handle. His motor is non-stop. He is not a threat from three, but he can move the ball. And he would bring a bite to the starting lineup and top of the roster that it currently (and sorely) lacks.

You’d have to have the right coach to handle/work with him (Terry Stotts?, Taylor Jenkins? – I don’t think that you bring in a newer, younger coach if you bring in big Russ).

Or not.

Hobby916
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April 24, 2025 10:42 am
Reply to  RobHessing

Russ has a player option, so he could opt out looking for a longer deal as he ages.

Russ also likes to run, plays with pace, and knows how to get others involved. I think he would also fit well when Malik comes in as the 6th man.

Jack
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April 24, 2025 10:58 am
Reply to  Hobby916

Just my opinion but Westbrook does not fit with what Perry or if staying Doug wants. One of Scotts first thoughts was defense. Forget Westbrook. Monk plays better defense. If you think Monk is erratic then we don’t want Westbrook. I would rather have free agent Ty Jerome ( get him with our MLE) or trade for Andrew Nembhard. They would either one be really good point guards that play team ball which by the way is another of Scotts recommendations of a good team.

RobHessing
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April 24, 2025 11:01 am
Reply to  Jack

Monk plays better defense.

You’ll need to show your work on this one. Because the eye test says that it’s Westbrook, and it’s not even close.

It’s fine if you prefer other PGs to Westbrook. I get it. But Monk as a better defender than Westbrook? Monk as a better defender than almost anyone? This has not been my viewing experience.

Hobby916
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April 24, 2025 11:05 am
Reply to  RobHessing

Monk is not a defender, by any means. He is so bad on that end. That fly by 3 point defense is maybe the most annoying thing that he does. Letting his defenders just getting right by him is a close 2nd, followed by leaving his defender open in the corner nearly every possession.

UpgradedToQuestionable
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April 24, 2025 12:42 pm
Reply to  Hobby916

Monk is a highlight film wannabe, IMO.

He goes for the blocked shot, the passing lane steal, and sometimes – he gets that. And it looks great.

Same goes for his offense – the highlight reel dunk, step back 3, the through the crowd assist or his particularly annoying (off the mark) ally-oop(s).

He is the anti-John Stockton. His natural spot – IMO – is the Terrence Ross/Jamal Crawford/Lou Williams off the bench spark plug – which he does wonderfully.

If he were to find a ball club where he could provide that – like in a trade scenario – I wouldn’t mind. I will add – his teammates seem to really like the guy, he is a charismatic personality, which is a big plus.

Jack
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April 24, 2025 12:49 pm

I would trade him for Andrew Nembhard. Now we would have our starting point guard for quite awhile.

UpgradedToQuestionable
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April 24, 2025 12:57 pm
Reply to  Jack

Why would Indiana trade Nembhard for Monk? They already have the younger 6th man in Mathurin.

(as for Mathurin – he’s gonna end up on a young team, like Wizards or Charlotte or if Atlanta trades Trae, and be a starter, methinks)

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April 24, 2025 12:53 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

I am big Westie fan. Anyone that plays that hard every minute he’s on the floor – it’s a pleasure to watch. He has the intensity gene. One of the things I enjoy about the guy is that we fans seem to battle his limitations more than he does. He is going to do his thing, full speed, and sometimes that means he makes the bad pass, or misses another open three pointer. But he’ll take that shot anyway if he thinks he needs to.

If you compare him to another, but very different energy guy, like Malik Monk that I discuss below this comment, and you apply the “that’s who he is” label – to me, Westbrook tries to do what I interpret as the “right” basketball play, whereas MM tries to do the “look at me” play. And as far as being defenders, Westbrook and Monk are not on the same planet, IMO.

If I’m Russell Westbrook – and I am not – I’m looking to stay with a winning organization that has a winning regular season that is playoff bound. Not the playoff maybe Kings. Even if it means he isn’t starting. He and Jokic are an exciting duo. My other worry about Westbrook is that he’s been on 6 different teams the last 8 seasons. That’s tough to overlook.

Last edited 1 month ago by UpgradedToQuestionable
andy_sims
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April 24, 2025 12:45 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

It’s definitely worth considering. Lots of pros and cons with Russ, but all you’ve said is true.

Adamsite
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April 24, 2025 2:36 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

The only thing that gives me pause on Westbrook was hiw role in Denver vs what it would be in Sac. He started out as a 6th man there in a position to prolong his career. He was on a championship contending team with the best player onthe planet. He, Malone, and Denver brass knew his role. He was neer handed the keys in Denver.

Put him in Sac, however, with a team that is in definite flux and we may see bad, hevy usage, and 3pt chucking Westbrook that we are very familiar with. He’d be handed the keys here.

It’s a risk for sure, but i’m still hesitant. I could also see spun as Perry’s “big” move and that’s all that’s really done in the offseason. I wouldn’t be happy about that. The Kings might even become the oldest team in the league if Westbrook is the only major shakeup.

RobHessing
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April 24, 2025 4:37 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

Yep. It is a move that certainly comes with more than a modicum of risk.

ajonez81
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April 24, 2025 12:47 pm

The more I think about it Vivek’s refusal to tank/rebuild is the Kings’ franchise biggest problem. I don’t believe trades are how you build a good team and Sacramento is not attracting the right free agents at the right price, no one really wants to play here. That leaves the draft as your absolute best option, which is what all the other small market franchises do with success. Great draft picks (from lots of losing) are the base of your talent and create the momentum. You can add a few pieces through trade and free agency as a small market but to get a superstar you will have to draft one and pray he stays. To me this will continue to be Vivek’s downfall and reason we stay bad.

I would much rather tank and be excited about a top 3 or 5 pick for a few years, watch them grow and develop than what we do now. It’s fun watching a superstar get drafted and blow up on your team. It’s just the cost of business as a small market, there will be no Luka trade or big name signing. Even DDR was a B list celebrity. The reason the Kings fail and Perry probably will is because of their approach.

I know I’ve said this before but it’s just how it is. Paying attention to this team will be pointless until they do a rebuild. Even if they got lucky and improved a little, the ceiling would still be low with how they try to improve this team.

Last edited 1 month ago by ajonez81
ajonez81
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April 24, 2025 1:08 pm

One last thing to what I said above. If you’re not willing to let your team tank and deal with some of the negative consequences then you’re not qualified to be an owner. If Vivek can’t deal with some lost revenue from a few years of tanking then he’s not rich enough. But I guess that’s what happens sometimes and those teams suffer the most. Of course the larger markets don’t have the same problem but we should be addressing the issues in the way that are best for us.

Kfan
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April 24, 2025 1:20 pm

Is it wrong that I think ScoPe looks like adult Urkel with those glasses?

RobHessing
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April 24, 2025 4:38 pm
Reply to  Kfan

The bastard son of Urkel and Al Jarreau.

NorCalKingsFan
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April 24, 2025 7:03 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

“Did I do that After All?”

NowLoveThemOnceAgain
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April 24, 2025 8:47 pm

Keep DC, but please get some real offensive and defensive coaches who can get us back to moving the ball, not relying so heavily on 3’s, and most importantly, stopping the ball at the perimeter and at the basket.

NowLoveThemOnceAgain
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April 24, 2025 8:53 pm

LaVine is athletic and smart enough to become an elite defender. DC is the perfect person to teach him. But is he willing?? Same for Monk. Look at DeAaron Fox, who elevated his game at both ends of the court. (I am still pissed he was traded, but ultimately the team didn’t improve or worsen measurably.)

cloudyeyes
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April 24, 2025 9:18 pm

“I have had a chance to speak with Zach, and I knew Zach a little bit well before I took this job when he was a young player at UCLA when he was coming out, obviously scouted him and watched him a lot. Terrific talent, athletic, a career 40% three point shooter, and he and I had a good conversation. So, my job now, to help put pieces around him and others to enhance his ability to start winning.

Dear Scott Perry,

It sounds like your direction is to keep moving forward with the current turd sandwich, like what your boss wants. I implore you – look the other way. Look at the top teams currently in the playoffs – Cleveland? A team born out of mostly draft picks. OKC? Draft picks. Celtics? Draft picks. Nuggets? Draft picks. Do you see any good team in the playoffs comprised mostly out of aging players past their prime? This is not the way, and we all know it except for you, based on your presser, and Vivek. Blow it up and pick up draft picks. Tank seasons and just go for picks. At least we would be rooting for a team and possibly watching them grow into a good product, like what’s happening with the Rockets or Detroit, rather than eating a turd sandwich that Vivek wants to force down our throats, in a disgusting effort to keep the arena filled up for that $$$. Go for the root of the problem to organically build revenue in the future. Not, “let’s throw away the future just to keep the arena partly full for just one more season.” Rip the band-aid off. It’s not too hard and there still is a way to redeem yourself – just look away from Vivek.

Signed,
Concered Kings Fan

Last edited 1 month ago by cloudyeyes
Watty4ever
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April 27, 2025 5:42 pm

We need a PG and a big man who can run the floor and defend, be athletic and disruptive….. to play with Sabonis or instead of him. Genius. We have plenty of 2’s already, now we need a 1 and 4.

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