After 10 years of armchair scouting for Sactown Royalty and The Kings Herald, I no longer can watch the amount of tape needed for honest player profiles and to cover a full range of draft prospects. But I couldn’t just quit the NBA Draft completely, and have been watching and reading some scouting reports while checking out Brett Huff’s Consensus Big Board. While Monte McNair and the Sacramento Kings’ front office are likely talking with a dozen teams about trading the #13 pick, I’ve found a number of players I’d be excited to see them select. Here’s five of my favorite prospects in the Kings draft range.
DaRon Holmes II, Big, Dayton
DaRon Holmes just makes so much sense for the Kings. He’s been on the draft radar for three straight seasons, and put together an excellent junior year for Dayton while leading the team to the 2nd round of the Big Dance. Holmes averaged 20.4 points, 8.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 2.1 blocks with a 62.7% true shooting percentage as the Flyers’ far and away number one option. He scored in both the paint and from distance, and operated a lot with the ball above the perimeter, where he showcased both his driving ability and emerging deep shot (he shot 38% from three on 86 attempts on the year). He looks to be a high-feel player who made big strides in his game every season.
On defense, Holmes has been a strong, determined rim protector, snagging 2.6 blocks per 40 minutes across his Dayton career. He’s disruptive in pick-and-roll coverage and had highlights guarding in space and against drivers. At 6’8.75 in shoes, he doesn’t have the ideal size for an NBA big, but he’s got a 7’0 wingspan and makes the most of it.
He’s a logical fit both playing alongside Domantas Sabonis and acting as a small-ball 5 in reserve, and offers upside both on and off the ball. He plays with both heat and physicality and did so as Dayton’s top dude for multiple seasons. I’m a big fan of both his proven production and upside on both ends of the court. He captains my vibes draft board this year, and I’m not sure why he’s not considered a lottery prospect.
Kal’el Ware from Indiana also makes a ton of sense from a similar talent and fit perspective, and he’d be an exciting upside swing. But I’d bet that Holmes’ success as the focal point of Dayton’s offense (not to mention his near doubling-up on Ware’s three point and free throw makes and attempts this season) would make him more likely a McNair target.
Ron Holland, Forward, GLeague Ignite
I cannot make myself believe that Holland will fall to #13. It does not make sense to me that NBA GMs would decide “this is not the best guy to bet on” 12 straight times. A 6’7 power wing with a 6’11 wingspan, Holland’s explosive athleticism, defensive motor and versatility, and production in the GLeague makes him the type of player that all NBA teams, the Sacramento Kings especially, should want to gamble on.
In 29 games with Ignite, Holland averaged 19.5 points, 6.7 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 2.3 steals (and 3.2 turnovers) on 46% shooting. He was the team’s most productive player offensively and was a terror in the open court and in transition. While his handle and decision making are absolutely areas for improvement (he had more turnovers than assists), he has the offensive framework and drive to potentially be an aggressive on-ball creator. On defense, he matched up often at the point of attack against a range of GLeague opponents and showed great physicality and tenacity. His motor is off the charts – he dives for every loose ball and stays engaged on every play.
So why might he fall? His shooting ability is a major question mark (23.7% on 93), and there are reports that he wasn’t “particularly impressive” (per Sam Vecenie) at his draft pro day.
The Ignite team was also awful this season—so awful that the NBA shut the program down after this season—but I’d think that would make NBA teams wary of focusing on the Ignite’s results rather than on their player’s traits. It’s not Holland’s fault, or really the faults of fellow draftees/1st round locks Matas Buzelis or Tyler Smith, that the team had no spacing or playmaking around them. Holland is one of the youngest players in the draft, matched up every night with NBA hopefuls, and still produced 19.5 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 2.3 steals per game despite this poor team context. He shouldn’t have been asked to be the team’s primary creator, but I’m willing to bet on the tools he showcased will scale well to a lesser role on (hopefully) a smart team.
If Holland lasts to 13, he’s absolutely a player McNair should gamble on. I don’t care if he doesn’t fit the typical Monte-mold for draftees – even if he’s not as finished a product as the Kings’ previous 1st-round selections, he’s an ideal fit for the team positionally, athletically, and defensively. Have him work with assistant coach Luke Loucks on his deep shot while slowly scaling his offensive responsibilities early in his career – I bet he’ll still make an impact as a rookie even if it’s just as an energy player off the bench. In the long run, if his shot comes around to just league average, I bet he could be the steal of the draft. If you cannot take a homerun swing at pick #13 in this draft, when will you take that shot?
I’ll note that Tyler Smith, Holland’s Ignite teammate, makes sense as a surprise sleeper. At 6’11 with a 7’1 wingspan, Smith averaged 13.4 points and 5.1 rebounds in 22 minutes per game while shooting 47.4% from the field and 36% from three. Draft folks I trust have noted he was a capable, determined, and switchable defender. He’s probably the most project player on this list, which logically makes him an unlikely selection by McNair, but the long-term fit as a 6’11 forward who can shoot is promising.
Tristan da Silva, Forward, Colorado
Da Silva just makes too much sense as a Kings target. He’s 6’10 in shoes with a 6’10 wingspan, averaged 16 points, 5.1 boards, 2.4 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, and is a truly efficient offensive player. Mike Garcia (who produces fantastic, albeit Lakers-centric draft coverages) noted da Silva has shot above 60% at the rim, above 45% on all other 2-point shots, and above 39% from three in each of the past two seasons. He’s smart off the ball, and his ability to thrive as a catch-and-shoot threat and as a cutter was a big boon to Colorado’s hyper-efficent offense (7th of 362 D-1 teams in FG%). He also had a big jump in assist rate this season (13.4%) and could be another connective playmaker in a balanced offense. While da Silva doesn’t have the handling skill or self-creation film that the rest of the guys on this list have, his versatility on offense is undeniable, especially when teams won’t be able to ignore him for fear of his proven deep shot.
On defense, da Silva looks like a capable, high-effort defender, but will need to prove his on-ball range at the next level. While his size and length are ideal for a combo forward, he’s not without some toolset questions – he’s a smooth athlete, but he’s certainly not an explosive one, only weighed in at 216 lbs at the combine, and is already 23-years-old. My biggest concern is his rebounding – 6.0 per 40 minutes and a 9% rebounding rate is worrying for a dude at his size and projected NBA role. He needs to bulk up and get much more determined on the glass if he wants to be able to slide up to the 4 spot in the NBA.
I’ve seen many folks characterize da Silva as a safe or low-upside, high-floor type prospect, but the tape I’ve watched screams of a dude whose versatility is getting undersold. He’s wasn’t a proven on-ball creator at Colorado, but the rest of his game is so balanced and proven that any improvement in his handle and driving ability would make his value to an NBA team skyrocket (I call this the Mikal Bridges principle, since folks once told me Mikal was a low-ceiling player). Every team should want players with da Silva’s size, shooting ability, and offensive touch. Hat tip to our fearless leader Greg for pointing da Silva out to me months ago, he did a great job of identifying a true NBA player in his own backyard.
And speaking of players at Colorado, Cody Williams would also be a great upside swing for Sacramento. He’s a crafty, efficient scorer both on drives to the basket and from deep, and has great size and promising on-ball defense. His season-long stats (11.9 points and 3 rebounds on 55% shooting and 41.5% from three) may mislead his draft value, considering he suffered multiple fluke injuries (a fractured orbital bone, a wrist injury, and an ankle sprain) over the season. As Sam Vecenie noted, in the 14 games he played before the ankle sprain on March 14, Williams averaged 15.4 points, 3.4 rebounds and 1.7 assists while shooting 60% percent from the field.
But I refuse to get overly excited about him potentially sliding, as Williams seems as unlikely as anyone on this list to fall to the Kings. This is especially true since Oklahoma City holds the 12th pick, just traded Josh Giddey for Alex Caruso (a fantastic trade, but one that may leave them looking for some more wing size off the bench), and they already have Cody’s brother, star Jalen Williams, on the roster.
Dalton Knecht, Wing, Tennessee
I rolled my eyes when I opened Knecht’s Tankathon profile for the first time, back when he was mocked to the Kings constantly—a 23-year-old who, after years of playing at a junior college and then at Northern Colorado University, led a power school to excellence with a brillant shooting stroke and a well-rounded offensive game? It seemed like projecting Knecht to be a King was making Monte McNair into a caricature. Then I watched some tape, and boy does Knecht look like the real deal.
Dalton led Tennessee to an SEC regular season title and an Elite Eight run in the NCAA Tournament while averaging 21.7 points and 4.9 rebounds on 45.8% from the field and 39.7 from three. At 6’7 in shoes and with a 6’9 wingspan, he’s a dangerous sharpshooter off the catch, off of movement, and off of screens. He doesn’t need much space to get his shot off, wasn’t bothered by defenses flying at him, and can get hot in a hurry. But he’s much more than just a off-the-catch shooter—he hit difficult buckets off the dribble, off cuts, and while attacking the basket. He moves well off the ball and can absolutely poster defenders if they aren’t ready for him. He’s strong, crafty, and plays with real physicality across the court.
Knecht will need to prove it on the defensive end. While he’s an excellent vertical athlete and played on one of the better defensive teams in the country, his tape shows he had trouble guarding speedy opponents at the point of attack. Hopefully with a lesser role and a defensive-minded coach, he can improve; the Kings last late-bloomer selection sure went from a questionable defender in space to a dynamic one. Knecht will also need to show that he can impact the game beyond scoring; 6.4 rebounds and 2.4 assists per 40 minutes aren’t amazing for a player of his size and offensive usage, but Tennessee ended the season 20th in the country for assists and 43rd in rebounds, so it’s clear that playmaking and attacking the glass weren’t issues for the Volunteers.
Knecht may not give the Kings the size advantage they so desperately need, but he’s way too gifted and versatile an on- and off-ball scorer to ignore if he lasts until pick 13.
Jared McCain, Guard, Duke
Big caveat here – I had most of my notes written for McCain before Malik Monk agreed to stay a King and did Sacramento a huge favor by making his decision before the draft. Hopefully now we can put the idea of McNair using arguably his biggest offseason asset on another guard behind us.
I’m a fan of Jared McCain, and a month ago I’d have said he was worth taking a look at pick #13. He shot 41% from three on high volume, carried Duke in the second half off the season, rebounds at a great clip for his size, and is FROM Sacramento. I’m a sucker for basketball narratives, and that’s a hell of a potential storyline right there. He’s one of the best off-ball shooters in the draft class with a lightning quick release. He’s got plenty of highlights attacking the basket in the pick-and-roll and on closeouts. While he doesn’t have intimidating size or length, the draft folks I trust praised his off-ball defensive awareness and willingness.
But as time went on (and even when Monk remained un-signed), I realized that McCain makes as little sense for this roster as other guards in the Kings draft range. He didn’t showcase big-time on-ball creation or passing skills, and doesn’t have great size or NBA athleticism. Meanwhile, the other guards in this range—Providence’s Devin Carter (a defensive and athletic freak, albeit one whose single-season positive shooting sample reminds me of the last undersized guard the Kings drafted), USC’s Isaiah Collier (strong potential on-ball upside), or Baylor’s Ja’Kobe Walter (who has true wing size, to be fair)—are all talented, and certainly worth consideration in a vacuum. But even before Monk returned a King, and even while approaching this draft with a vibes-first approach, I ended up with one rule I want to scribble in permanent, purple marker on McNair’s favorite vest – “Don’t draft a guard.”
I’ve long been a proponent for the best player available (BPA) draft method, back when this team was always a year or two away from being a year or two away. But BPA is never as clear and obvious as fans and armchair scouts like to believe. A majority of draft experts and fans (myself very much included) thought Jaden Ivey was the BPA when the Kings selected Keegan Murray in 2022, and look how that turned out. But the bottom line is that if McNair is absolutely convinced that the best guard available when he’s drafting will be a significantly better NBA player than the best forward or big available, then he should take that guard—but then he better have a real plan in place to get that young guard a meaningful role.
Even if Monk hadn’t decided to re-sign, the Kings still have their biggest depth at the guard spots, and between De’Aaron Fox, Kevin Huerter, Keon Ellis, Davion Mitchell, and Colby Jones, the playing time just doesn’t logically line up for Sacramento to add another guard prospect unless multiple moves are made. Over the past two years the Kings weren’t able to find the consistent roles for the bench guards they currently are developing until injuries forced their hands.
More importantly, the Kings have, across multiple front offices over the past decade and a half, never prioritized the forward positions enough, and their lack of size will continue to haunt them until they do. We watched Sacramento get backhanded 6 times this season by a New Orleans Pelicans team that HAS prioritized drafting and adding big wings and forwards. The Sacramento are a big boy organization now, and they need to bring in more big boys.
Dalton option 1 for us but i don’t think he drops past spurs at 8.
maybe a sasha+13 gets us 8?
also terrance shannon is a dude that is probably ready to contribute on the wing as a rookie, would love to see something like this done on him!
I also thought of that possibility – trading Sasha to move up. Possibly swapping with the Bulls who will pick Devin Carter according to rumors. OKC will move up – I’ll bet on that. No idea which team will pick at 12.
Devin Carter to replace Caruso would certainly save the Bulls some face in the wake of that trade
OKC has like 12 future firsts, I still can’t believe Da Bulls didn’t get one first attached to Giddey on that trade.
Lowe even reported that OKC was rumored to have offered two firsts for Caruso at the deadline haha. Bulls need to fire their GM.
I actually like that idea, if the Kings are in love with someone they’re worried won’t get to 13. Get the player you want, and also shed a Sasha’s salary to help with luxury tax/first apron concerns. Might be selling low on Sasha though, but I’m not sure what sort of market he has.
Only Kings wanted Sasha and they got him. I don’t see anyone giving up anything for him.
The Kings were given money to take him.
This is not accurate, and is an absurd premise. The Kings were paid for their second round draft pick. The Cavs didn’t need to pay anyone to take the draft rights for Sasha. He wasn’t counting against the Cavs cap in any way. They simply owned his rights.
As part of the deal the Kings were given cash and Sasha. Pretty simple.
Was the cash directly for Sasha only?
No.
There was cash and cash considerations has been this organizations most coveted player.
And they took less than the maximum cash they could have received because they also received Sasha, who was of value to the organization. Stop wasting your time trying to cling to an inaccurate narrative and just move on.
Not pursuing a narrative.
Reality is the Kings were given cash in the deal. In my opinion that cash was part of what MM wanted to offset the risk of dealing with him. Smart move.
When cash is required in order to make a deal for a player in that situation the market for that player is not strong.
thanks for the input! You couldn’t stay away forever – that’s good!
of your list, Holmes and Holland are interesting prospects that I’d want the Kings to consider.
If we’re looking at wing shooters like da Silva and Knecht, I think Scheierman deserves a look as well. Better passer, rebounder, playmaker, and possibly a better defender – and that means he’s probably a better processor. Sam Vecenie recently went over game footage with him – it’s on YouTube. (he also did a recent one for Bub Carrington who will likely be off the board).
And Filipowski – if the medical info on his hips is decent.
What are your thoughts on picking at 13 and then trading up again at some point to pick another player. Given our CaP situation moving forward, we really need contributors on rookie deals, not likely to get that from mid second round picks, so why not package multiple seconds to move up and draft another first round prospect or an early second round prospect.
I haven’t thought about that.
TWO WORDS – Ron Holland
Let him start in Day 1…..
Imagine his defensive motor with Ellis….
then his athleticism and powerful dunk with Monk in 2nd unit….
Would love Holmes at 13 and I also don’t understand why he’s not projected higher.
Same here. And Holmes got Jerry’s stamp of approval. As has Bobby Portis.
Coming away with those two post draft and FA/trade period would be awesome.
Jerry going out of his way to praise Holmes was a delightful surprise during that podcast.
Thanks for the breakdown, Bryant! I’ll miss your deep dive profiles on every prospect but am grateful for whatever you’re able to produce.
Took another look at the players around the Kings range and I’ve changed my tune on a couple people.
Overall I still don’t want a project player, but guys like Topic, Dillingham, Williams, and Holland are all a clear tier above the rest of the guys in the draft in terms of ceiling. I’d say you’d have to take one of them if they’re there at #13. No harm in having a high level prospect playing in Stockton for a couple years while the team continues to compete in Sac.
As for Da Silva and Holmes, my initial belief was that they weren’t so special as to have to reach for them at #13 and that maybe they’d be better as trade back candidates. But then I looked at the other prospects in that range and was so thoroughly unimpressed I figure you might as well take a solid role player at a position of need if they’re there. I’ll roll the dice at #13 on a Topic or Holland, but Ja’Kobe Walter? I’m good. Gimme one of the guys I know can play. I’d toss Jaylon Tyson into that mix too.
Then of course the best of both worlds is Knecht and Carter – both damn near sure things that are high level rotation players from Day 1. Carter is redundant with Keon and Knecht is redundant with Huerter, but it doesn’t hurt taking surefire rotation players and figuring the rest out later.
Overall though I think the most value we’ll get out of this pick is letting another team roll the dice on a project and packaging it in a trade. John Collins and Kuzma are my preferred targets atm. Lots of options though and I trust Monte to make diligent moves. Sets us up for an exciting draft night!
I would throw in Portis into that group as well. Any other 4’s that are obtainable for the 13th pick?
I think we might want to stay away from Kuzman and focus on Collins and Portis:
Portis: 1) KH 2) KH and Lyles
Collins: 1) KH, Lyles, and a 2nd rounder 2) KH, Lyles, #13 for Collins and a combination of Kessler, Bazely (likely), Sensabaugh, Hendricks, Dunn (lkely), and Yurtseven (likely)—— defense or a young prospect would be huge.
Dark horse candidate: Julius Randle
One of the reasons why I like Collins is not just because of fit, but also cost. He shouldn’t cost draft capital, while guys like Kuzma, Portis, or Stewart may.
Utah acquired Collins for an expiring/retiring Rudy Gay and a 2nd round pick. He also plays the same position as Lauri. If Ainge can flip him for two useful contracts like Huerter and Lyles plus a 2nd rounder, its a win for him.
Ainge is the unknown and likely most difficult factor here. Maybe he sees Collins a useful contract for a big trade that lands Utah a star? I also don’t understand why they are rumored to possibly be shopping Kessler and Lauri. Either way, at some point he’s going to cash in on all those picks and useful contracts, much like Presti in OKC.
I like them both but IMO Collins flts better along side Sabonis and you could probably get him without using a first.
Good luck making a trade with Ainge where you don’t have to give up a first.
Are such numbers indicative of translating to decent shot blocking in the NBA?
Because that looks not all that impressive to me.
Tankathon regards his blocking numbers as a strength, FWIW.
I don’t really have a strong opinion on who the Kings might/should draft at 13 (not sure I’m overly impressed with MM’s track record so far), I’m just hoping that the 13th pick isn’t used as part of a deal for Zach LaVine.
I agree.
Track record is Hali at 12, Mitchell at 9, Murray at 4. That’s an elite player, a solid player that is still growing his game, and a solid though unspectacular sub.
I’m pretty pleased with the 1st round drafting track record of McNair, especially (ESPECIALLY) when framed against the rest of the Kings 1st round picks during the Ranadive era.
Yeah, in my opinion, one of Monte’s biggest strengths has been his drafting of first round picks.
Manna from heaven.
Thank you, Bryant. The draft may proceed now.
Mama, there goes that man.
Awesome breakdown and good to see you back. Your first two mentioned potential draftees are the two I hope we go after (Holmes, Ware).
If one of the two falls into the 20’s, I’d even trade up to draft the other, netting me two first round prospects.
I’ll keep saying it, have to keep throwing darts at the 4 position next to Domas.
I would also buy low on Miles Bridges. I know about the baggage, but Monk should be familiar with him and if Monk gives the FO his stamp of approval on Bridges being past his mistakes and having changed and shown contrition, I’d go after him, perfect fit next to Domas.
I know there were rumors about the Kings being interested in Bridges, and he’d be a great fit for the team. But I just can’t image an owner like Vivek Ranadivé going that direction. It’s against pretty much everything he stands for.
I’ve tried to think of anything they could to to position that (Extra counseling, donating to community programs, stating with Bridges how wrong domestic violence is, etc. etc.) and even then, I just can’t see it happening.
I think it’s against what all owners stand for, but I get your point, Vivek is probably less likely to take on a player with that baggage than other GMs given Vivek’s clear stances on social justice and political matters etc.
But if we whiff out on the other options at the 4, Brisges should be on the table.
Hmm…with Orlando looking for outside shooting but reportedly not wanting to commit to FAs for more than 2 years, I was thinking KH for Isaac would work straight up. But I guess Isaac’s political leanings might not sit well with Vivek either.
One thing to be against players that have assaulted women, etc. But political/world views?
Interesting take on both sides. And potentially messy because, I mean, hey, politics, religion, and sports, what could go wrong? Here’s my take ,and the admins can feel free to delete it if it crosses a line.
No matter what a player’s political views are, the gap between that and assaulting a woman–in front of your kid no less–is enormous. I think any decent person would have serious misgivings about signing a player who did what Bridges did. There is literally no way to explain it away.
Racism and homophobic slurs comments etc, are really close up there. Again, is this who you want representing your team, city, and in Vivek’s case as the owner, what you stand for?
Politics and world views can obviously be alienating as well. But as we’ve seen many times in sports, different people have different views and still play together. Even if those views are unpopular with a lot of people. I don’t think Isaac’s beliefs would keep the Kings from trading for him. And while I personally don’t agree with everything he says, I admire his humility and willingness to say exactly what he believes, why he believes it, and his willingness to accept that others have the right to believe different things.
I would find it difficult to root for either of these players, more so Bridges than Isaac. Bridges’ public apologies were erased by his subsequent behavior, allegedly throwing billiard balls at his former girlfriend’s car while there were children inside the car.
Isaac has a right to express his views; I simply strongly disagree with most of them.
Isaac being a religious conservative is in no way a risk to play NBA basketball .
I agree. People have the right to have their own opinions on politics, religion etc so that shouldn’t preclude the FO going after Isaac.
Right. Isaac has sincerely held views stemming from his faith and upbringing. That’s incomparable to Bridges. One is a conservatively inclined person with (by all accounts) a good heart, and the other is a woman-beater and piece of junk excuse for a human being. Anybody who would refuse to sign or trade for Isaac because of his political views should take a long look in the mirror and examine his/her own perspective on things.
I’d take Isaac in a heartbeat for KH. We need that defense and athleticism. I don’t know anything about his political leanings and don’t really care, but perhaps Vivek and the FO would consider that. Who knows.
Wendell Carter needs to be on the list with Kuzma, Collins, and Portis. He would cost less and seems to have lost playing time in Orlando. Carter + Suggs for #13, KH, and Davion or Duarte. They would likely reject, so we might need to take on another player, like Mo Wagner, Houstan, Bitadze, or a combo of two of these players.
and yes, Jordan Ford for Donovan Mitchell.
Orlando loves Suggs- they won’t give him up’
Exactly. And I love that he makes the Kings about more than basketball.
The recent history of former Kings and their troublesome (I want to use the correct language here, forgive me if I do not) histories-
that many players, assistant coaches and even a Head Coach have all been part of the Ranadive hiring resumé. I am NOT advocating for Miles Bridges and would prefer he not don the purple, grey and black that has Sacramento printed on it- however, Vivek’s words and Vivek’s actions on this front have not ever been trustworthy nor consistent on this and a good many other of his public orations, IMO.
Vivek just virtue signals. For the past decade as owner, he has annoyed me with his words and actions.
Bingo. That people believe that Vivek is better than most other owners is a head scratcher.
I guess it’s the “he’s an asshole but hey he’s our asshole”-principle?
As adverse as I am to taking a Duke big, I’m a fan of Kyle Filipowski if Monte keeps the pick. I think Sabonis is the ideal mentor for him since he has a pretty good feel for the game. Good shooting big that can stretch the floor and play defense. None of the wings this year that are likely to be available at 13 really get me all that excited and I didn’t think they’ll be making a very big impact in the next few years, so may as well take a player that can duplicate some of the skills that make the offense function so well when Sabonis sits
Filipowski would make a lot of sense. Bug guy that can shoot and pass a little. He has some work to do, but big guys that can shoot are rare, and he does a lot of other little things on offense that are needed.
I read commentary and watch video of Kyle Filipowski and agree – he seems a very good fit as a PF who plays weakside D well and fits the offense.
And he’s an unsexy pick (as is DaSilva) which puts him firmly on the McNair Map, IMO.
He’s either Cody Zeller, or Kelly Olynyk or Moritz Wagner 2.0.
I’ve watched with surprise as he’s dropped in the draft boards based on his combine physical measurements much as Devin Carter has risen on these same measurements.
How does he play?
I think he’s a wonderful fit in Sac. But who knows?
Very slight correction— Holmes is 6’8.75” barefoot has has a 7’1” wingspan per the NBA combine anthrometrics. He also has a standing reach of 9’.
This was the first time I’d read anything suggesting Holmes was under 6’10”.
He’s 6’10” on the court as long as he plays in shoes.
Thanks for a great post Bryant. I’m glad somebody who studies it as much as you is as bullish on Holmes. Every offensive highlight I saw included a DHO or a pick and pop. He’s tailor made for the Kings’ offense and adds length and bounce to the defense. It’s such a simple formula, but hard to find a guy who fits: Sabonis and Murray are not rim protectors, so the third front court starter has to be. And he has to be good enough facing the basket not to get in Sabonis’ way. I’m so tired of the Barnes haters since he switched positions for Murray. He’s not a real 4! Boston had the inverse situation this year: they needed a 5 who was a rim protector and could face the basket. They convinced Porzingis to be that guy. If the Kings want to get better, they can either draft Holmes, who’s seasoned for a rookie, or trade for a real 4. My sleeper there: Isaiah Stewart. He got a three ball this year; he shot 38% on over 4 a game. Huerter for Stewart straight up works with salaries, and they need Huerter more than Utah would for Huerter plus Vezenkov, my other favorite trade.
I would say do both. Draft a 4 and sign/trade for a 4.
Sorry, didn’t say John Collins for Huerter and Vezenkov.
I like Collins but would rather trade Barnes and Mitchell instead.
Rather have Barnes over Huerter. More dependable and gives depth at the 3/4.
I don’t know about Huerter. He gave me weird vibes last season. His body language wasn’t very good, and he seemed to sulk after being benched early.
You want to keep Sasha?
Is he a key piece in your first international trade?
Sasha for next years Euro League MVP?
I kind of like that idea, Rotate until we find one that can play.
Jesus. Reading this article almost makes me want to watch college basketball.
Great stuff.
Indeed. His continued slotting into the lower twenties just hasn’t made sense to me. I found both Tankathon and the Ringer to be extremely lazy, both putting Holmes at twenty-eight, to Denver, who apparently made a promise to take him there. Teams at the back end of the draft have essentially no influence over what’s going to happen, and for both of these draft sources to try to wish it into reality is pretty shoddy journalism.
If the knock on him is that the Atlantic 10 doesn’t provide quality competition, I’d dispute that. And if you’re stuck on that, here’s some numbers out of conference:
St. Johns: 21 points/5 boards/2 blocks
Houston: 16/5/1
SMU: 20/7/3
Cincinnati: 28/7/5
Nevada: 18/9/1
Arizona: 23/11/1
Not exactly no-name teams, Houston and Arizona in particular. Holmes already has the physical characteristics of an NBA player, and was playing the type of game at Dayton to prep him for the things that NBA bigs need to do.
you just like him extra because he’s from Dayton. Admit it! You want the Kings to take a Flyer on him.
I am absolutely in the Dayton tank, I freely admit it. Still, I’ve tried to shove that aside and be objective, assuming that’s possible.
Clearly, all that I’m doing is echoing Bryant, who is far more respectable.
The combine results I’ve seen for Holmes have him at 6’8.75 without shoes, meaning he’d probably be around 6’10 in shoes. He’s the guy that intrigues me most.
I’ve also seen him projected to go late 1st, so would it be a reach to take him at 13? Seems like the main reason he’s projected there is because he didn’t play against “elite” talent at Dayton.
I think part of the reason for his ranking on draft boards is due to role. At Dayton he could be the anchor of the defense. Although he can block some shots, he does not project for that role in the nba. So he’s more of a 4 on defense, which would be fine if someone like Rudy Gobert is patrolling the paint, but if not, is he switchable enough?
On offense he was utilized primarily in the pick n roll or pick n pop, and posting up. How would he adjust to playing on the perimeter or between corner and dunker’s spot next to someone like Sabonis? Just questions.
you hope your talent evaluators can figure out where the Weber St,, Lehigh, Pittsburgh and Davidson stars (Damian Lillard, CJ McCollum, Steven Adams, Stephon Curry) are and how they fit the NBA game in general and your team in particular.
In this draft, which is mostly a shifting order of the same groupings, it’s the best big – unless you it is a player you just love and they drop to you (Ron Holland, Cody Williams, Donald Knecht, etc.) or you covet (Terrence Shannon, Jr., DaRon Holmes, Kyle Filipowski) that is predicted to be a later pick than your lottery slot.
It would be interesting to pick Monte’s brain on the last few drafts:
would they have chosen Jabari Smith, Jr, Chet or Paolo over Keegan if Jaden Ivey was grabbed in the Top 3?
Who would they have picked if Ty Haliburton wasn’t there?
Dark secrets, forever unknown, but covered in mystery – never to be unveiled.
The same wonder is there now, with Wednesday’s draft soon approaching.
My only request: Keep Vlade and Vivek away!
Thank you Bryant. Great insights and analysis.
This is all chess- many quick moves.
Malik is wonderful- he didn’t fuss around and committed, early enough to allow for chess moves. So, no guards. But if a coveted guard lands at 13 and there is a good chance of that- just pick the guy Kings want or trade that guard, get an asset and hope the lessor position does not result in losing the player Kings wanted all along. And it is tough to see others evaluations Kings might want Holmes, expect him to fall to Denver at #28 but Portland covets him at #14. There is a risk in trading down. On the other hand, if TDS, Ware, Filipowski and Holmes are all seen on the same plain, then the risk is less. Some teams may want to move up for a specific player who drops to #13- like Carter, Dillingham or Holland. Others, like Washington just want a second lottery pick to help their rebuild. The trade down possibilities includes Washington at #26 (above Denver), the NYK at 24/25, Toronto who wants Edey at 19, Orlando who wants shooters at 18 and NOP who wants a center at 21. Trade down, get an asset and take the guy you wanted all along or an alternative if all the same. My dream trade- to Washington for Kuzma and #26 for HB and #13. Take Holmes at #26. But this is all a guess. Washington may not want to give up #26. None of Holland, Dillingham or Carter will drop lower than 13 or 14 and teams who covet them know that.
The only players worth keeping the #13, IMO are Holland and Holmes. If Kings want Holland and he is there, pick and don’t play chess. If a guard is there, trade down and not so low as Holmes gets gobbled up. There is a risk in that but if Ware, Filipowski and TDS are seen as close enough, might be worth that risk.
I would not trade #13 plus players to Washington for just Kuzma. I would want the #26 in return. Another dream- trade to NYK for both 24 and 25, pick Holmes and Ryan Dunn. Dreams are just that- dreams and chess moves. Takes courage and patience.
Kings need more than a player. That is part of my reasoning for leveraging the guard heavy #13 into 2 serviceable players. Holland alone or Holmes alone is fine but not enough.
Another option- keep the #13, get who you want and trade a future first plus current players for a player. Probably leaves out Kuzma since Washington wants an immediate pick.
The big names hunted have to be Markenon, Bridges, Ingram or, last, Kuzma. All others mentioned are just fillers- like PJ in Dallas. He was good but Kings need real good.
Monte tends to be conservative, has a player type but he has traded picks around.
Second round- I would not be at all afraid to move up in second round. Talents drops off around #40. Kings have #45. Size, size, size.
If the Kings can’t find a trade that would drastically improve the team I wouldn’t be too upset with them running it back with the same core. The core has shown it can play against any team but the bench needs major improvement. Barring a major trade I would focus on improving the bench.
1.Holland ( if he slips )
2.holmes
3.devin carter
4.Ryan Dunn
5.terrence Shannon jr
6.dalton (Small forward to me and not a shooting guard .
Ware and smith would lose confidence with brown after the first week of training camp .
young players are not for mike brown . Since his cavalier days . I don’t think he ever developed young guys lol the dude lacks patience with young players . Some of them young players do the most stupidest stuff on D that will drive him crazy .
another thing ! They should draft guys that come from coaches that are really hard on players . The reason why monk and fox work good with brown they was coach by cal who is tough . Keegan pops was tough on him . Sabonis is coachable with a great attitude and respect for the game .
character and personality matters drafting for Mike brown .
“I just heard that young players are not for Mike Brown,” Keegan Murray said,” because he never develops them and lacks patience.”
“That sounds about right,” Keon Ellis said.
Does Monk count as a young player too?
Kessler Edwards would, and he has sure had his chances.
I was hoping he would improve. Just looks lost out there, or doesn’t know his role, uncomfortable, etc.
Indeed, and Monk arguably took the greatest leap.
Malik definitely made Monte’s job easier moving forward. The man prioritizes options and flexibility and he’s certainly got them; a first round asset, an expiring contract (Huerter) and a declining vet with a hefty salary that could help balance a trade sheet for a star, a couple of mid level young vets (Davion and Lyles.) He can definitely make a move that defines this roster and its potential success for the next few years in the next couple of months.
Options, options, options. Monte’s definitely got a few to work with at the moment.
Devin Carter would be my choice for the 13th pick due to his defensive acumen ang shot making ability.
My dark horse pick would be Bud Carrington.. 6’5 guy with good defensive instincts, great feel for the game and a good shooter. Wouldn’t turn 19 until July. I know Monte has a type in drafting older prospects but man if he drafts Carrington I’ll be super happy.. Dude will be a great player in the league.
Great article! Love me more Kings Draft coverage. I’m right with you on the guys I hope are drafted if they are there. Daron Holmes just makes a TON of sense. Why is he not being mocked higher? I don’t get it. I would also take a shot on Tidjane Salaun if he falls but he is also a project.
Just a quick update: With the re-siging of Monk, the Kings are now roughly just $3.6M below the tax line. The #13 pick is guaranteed $4.7M next season. That means that just by keeping the #13 the Kings will be in the tax even before they hit free agency with their MLE and Bi-annual.
From that, I fully expect them to move the pick and a salary like Barnes, Huerter, Sasha, Duarte, and or Lyles.
There is just too much redundancy at the 2 guard and the Kings still need a legit PF option next to Sabonis. That starting PF option is likely not available at #13. I like Holmes and all, but I’m not about to anoint him a starter in weak draft when he’s project to go after #20. Also, the Kings still need a real big man or two behind Sabonis and, IMO, another defensive wing.
All that being said, the Kings could definitely spend and operate above the tax, especially since any potential tax penalties don’t occur until the end of next season. If shit goes sideways, they can get below the tax at the deadline.
Still, I feel Monte’s first choice is to move the pick and salary for an upgrade to the core rotation while remaining fiscally flexible. Some super easy options: Huerter to Orlando or Philly for future draft capital or my personal favorite: Huerter, Sasha, Duarte, the #13, and a 2nd rounder or two for John Collins, Taylor Hendricks, and Omer Yurtseven
Sending out Huerter and not getting a SG back would mean that Colby Jones and Duarte would get those minutes, or more Davion. Yikes…unless they found a replacement with the MLE to save a few million.
2nd trade is worth it.
Huh? Kings have Ellis and Monk. Ellis is basically eating the Huerter starting minutes from the beginning of last season.
If that holds, then sure. But I would want Huerter over Davion and Duarte. Those 2 are so underwhelming. Fox, Ellis, monk are fine, then the 4th guard needs minutes, and Huerter is the nest option of the ones remaining.
For me it’s about cost. Why have Huerter as the 4th guard in the rotation of $17M per year? Duarte and Mitchell, for all their faults, don’t cost the same as Huerter combined. Those dollars are better spent elsewhere, IMO.
over the cap teams are restricted in use of mid level exception and biannual, right? but this restriction does not start until they are over at the end of this coming year, not right now?
Ainge the miser will not give up Hendricks. Utah likes him. Orlando might want Huerter but also might think they can get a player- shooter- for free in free agency
Correct. They Kings would have until the deadline to get back below the cap if they exceed it this summer. It’s not a big deal in my mind, but I also don’t cut the checks.
FWIW, the Kings (as in ownership) made over $28M in league distributions via tax paying teams for not being a team over the tax line. The Warriors, for example, payed over $120M in tax penalties.
It literally lines the pockets of ownership for not being a tax paying team.
Just an example. Barnes, Mitchell,2024 and 2025 seconds, 2027 first for Kyle Kuzma.
Huerter, Lyles, #13 and 2 seconds for Tre Jones and Zach Collins. Spurs would love #13 to go along wth their #4 and #8. Will have Marcus Smart to play point guard. With any of those picks get a big.
Get Naji Marshall in FA to be your defensive wing.
Starters: Fox, Ellis, Murray, Kuzma, Sabonis.
Backups: T. Jones, Monk, Marshall, Vezenkov, Collins.
Reserves: C. Jones, Edwards, Len
PS. If we can’t get Kuzma in the trade above then John Collins would wotk just as well maybe even better.
Jack- Washington wants a second lottery pick this year- that’s #13. I would like to get a pick swap with Washington 13 for 26, give up HB and even Davion, for Kuzma.
and I would skip the Z. Collins trade
With 26, get Holmes
get N. Marshall as FA
again, this might be one of those trades like Jordan Ford for Donovan Mitchell. – my fantasy
If you like Holmes enough at #13, then take him at #13. Don’t trade it away, take on Kuzma, and cross your fingers that Homes is still there at #26.
There is a riverboat and I am a gambler. I like Holmes but only marginally more than Ware or Filipowski- to me, on this riverboat, worth the gamble.
If we can’t get Kuzma foe a first and 2 seconds nthen get J. Collins. He IMO is a better fit anyway. I don’t understand why you wouldn’t want T. Jones and Z. Collins for the#13n and 2 seconds. Tre Jones would be a great bachup to Fox. He can score plays pretty good defense and has over 6 assets per game. Never turns the ball over and is a good facilitator. Z. Collins is a hustler, can score and not only a good backup to Sabonis but is heaven forbid if Sabonis is hurt can fill in. He is youndg and both Jones and Collins have good contracts. I compared Jones to Mitchell and it is not even close. Marshall as a very good backup SF and now you have a very good balance of scoring defense rim protection and continuity.
I believe that this is the point where the Kings have to use assets to get more than marginally better. Most of the trade options are at best, marginal, both Collins, etc. This is like the Mavs and PJ- a marginal improvement. The more than marginal would be clear starters- like Markenon, Bridges and BI- but probably one available now or even later. The next level is Kuzma and Grant- both would be starters. But Grant is too expensive. What I like about Kuzma ( and I have serious misgivings about him as well) is that he has to be guarded. This allows the Kings to play Keon since a team cannot field two players who do not have to be guarded, like the Kings when they play HB and Keon. Opponents can lay off of Collins (both). And to get them you give up the best assets. The Kings assets diminish quickly after this year ( the Huerter trade for one)
Jones and Collins do have good contracts but the goal is not a good contract but a starter who can score and is a threat. Both of these guys can score but they are not threats.
There may be differing views on this, but IMO Mavs got marginal help but no long-term help. and I would want to avoid selling short. Their two new guys did “get them to the Finals” but the collapse of Denver, Minnesota and OKC helped just as much.
I’m not sure about the logic of those first two paragraphs. If we’re talking about team salary, cap room and possible taxes going forward, there is a lot of value in a contributing player on a rookie scale contract starting at 3.8 mil. If that player can crack the rotation and perform comparable to a 17 mil. player, that would be a 13 mil savings, most of which could be spent on a PF. The Kings have tradeable players.
I should make myself a bit clearer:
1) I’m not sold on the Kings getting a contributing player at #13 in a weak draft, especially if that player isn’t a position of need.
2) Keeping Huerter at $17M when you just signed Monk at $18M all while assuming Ellis is your starting SG is financially unsound, especially if it gets you into the tax.
3) Another team may find value in a contract like Huerter and/or other bench pieces and/or the #13 and offer the Kings a rotation player of need in return. I’m thinking someone like a Kuzma, Collins, Stewart. It’s a rebalancing of finances across the roster.
Would anyone be very surprised if Brown would let Huerter start again, now he’s healthy?
Brown loves to stick with his favorites.
No, It wouldn’t surprise me at all, which is all the more reason for Monte to trade him. Whether it’s Huerter or Ellis who starts, it’s just silly to have so much of the cap and roster tied up in off guards when there is no backup center or legit PF.
I hear you, but if we need Monte to protect Brown from himself by trading away his favorite toys, what the hell are we doing?
And I am sometimes wondering if Monte and Brown are truly on the same page.
I think we know Monte’s intentions. Ellis was undrafted signing and he gave him his guaranteed deal before the injuries to Huerter and Monk. We also know that Huerter is on the trade block and has interest around the league. I guess we just wait and see.
I will add, Huerter for Isaiah Stewart works perfectly salary wise and it really helps both teams. I also wouldn’t mink plucking Troy Brown Jr. from them in package.
Emphatic yes on Stewart, no on Brown Jr.
Saw him plenty at Washington and he showed almost nothing.
Fair enough.
NBA Trade machine doesn’t like the $16M for Huerter for the $6M for Isaiah Stewart. I think a 3rd team needs be involved.
I will add that Detroit cleaned house in the upstairs suites.
New GM and soon, a new coach (who? reminiscent of Kangz searches – it’s going to be hard to find. Any great young prospects get opportunity, with a hard toad to success. An older established retread – it’s going to be a resurrection project most likely)
They are ripe to make a splash. Every GM wants everyone to know there’s a new sheriff in town. Is that Kevin Huerter- likely not, but maybe so. Bigger splashes – say DeJonte Murray, Trae Young – aren’t looking to head to Detroit. When I look at Detroit, or Washington, or Utah or Memphis – I sometimes substitute Sacramento as I believe our beautiful area is still a frown for most free agents- even with the current above .500 records for two whole years (like, wow! and everything)
I am rambling (again)- I like Huerter to Pistons, it’s a nice fit, but a 3rd team might be needed to fit the salaries
That’s his salary from last season. ESPN hasn’t been updated yet. Stewart is making $15M next season.
Try it over at fanspro.com
Just did a comparison on Stewart vs. Zach Collins. Collins comes on top.
Would Stewart start at PF or be the primary backup C? Where does Lyles end up? What about Barnes? It’s nice to have options, that’s for sure
I think you could start him at the 4. He’s a Naz Reid type of guy who play the 4 or 5. He’s also locked up on a very team friendly deal at $45M for 3 years with TO on the 4th year. I honestly don’t know why Detroit is wanting to move him.
An acquisition like his could also make Barnes a nice bench piece attht 3/4 and keep Lyles as a backup 4 or small ball 5.
Balances the roster a bit too. Barnes off the bench for 25mpg might be good for him and the team.
Stewart has a near 7’5 wingspan? That’s crazy. Lyles is 7’3, so shorter players but the length is there.
Detroit wants to move him because of MB3 and Wiseman, he says as a wise ass.
Zach Collins and John Collins. Both fit nicely.
I didn’t get the sense that Huerter was a favorite of Coach Brown’s at all. For many reasons.
there are prospects who can contribute. Baylor Scheierman for example as a back up wing. other people here like Knecht who I think can contribute in a more limited role as scorer off the bench. and others.
That’s kind of my point, those are projected bench pieces. The Kings are clearly missing a starting level 4 next to Sabonis. Plus, a guy like Scheierman may very well be there in the 2nd round. I don’t feel he is worth the #13.
he’s a unique player.
Not as unique as John Collins or Kyle Kuzma.
trading the 1st rounder to Utah for one year of John Collins makes no sense.
We all have different opinions here about Kuzma. My point was merely to point out a flaw in the original premise of Adamsite’s logic. the 13th pick would have a lot of value to the Kings if they keep it and make a good selection. Whether someone prefers player A to player B or player C over player D, etc. is not what I’m trying to get into right here.
I should be clear, I’m not in favor of trading the #13 in package for John Collins. I feel he could be had for matching salaries and a future 2nd. He also has a PO for 2025-26 at $26M that I doubt he opts out of. Kings would also have his Bird Rights. If all else fails, he comes off the books at the same time a potential Keegan extension kicks in.
Understand the logic here. Huerter money is a lot for a reserve. and I di think Ellis will start because defense improved so much with him But no one fears him or HB on offense. If he starts, need a 3/4 who is feared as a scorer- like Kuzma. For all his faults, you have to guard him. That gets Ellis on the court.
and I again, like the pick swap with Washington 13 for 26.
If nobody guards Ellis or Barnes, then they should be getting so many open 3s
they do and they don’t make them or they pass the ball
FYI – Last season
Keon Ellis led the Kings 3FG% (.417)
second was
Harrison Barnes (.389)
Paying the tax because we have twelve undersized guards is dumb.
Paying the luxury tax to get a real power forward is the cost for success.
Bryant – I understand you are arm’s length on the draft scene but the omission of the other bigs- specifically Duke’s Kyle Filipowski and the mammoth Zach Edey has me wondering about your thoughts on these 2 (or any others – Yves Missi, Oso Ighodaro, etc.)
I’m intrigued by Oso Ighodaro.
second round option
None of these guys are established NBA forwards that are good at the NBA level.
Trade the pick and players for what this team actually needs to win. Keep the pick but trade some people for a real power forward. Get a free agent power forward.
Don’t care how. Get what this team so obviously needs.
Lowe and Marks in a recent pod touched on the Kings and the MM contract.
They pretty much said what we all feel here, the team is essentially capped out with Fox and KM’s pending contracts which is going to make building around Fox, Domas, KM and MM very difficult and that core in itself isn’t competing for a title.
They floated some trade ideas for PG and Himmy. I think both those players contracts could be poison pills given thwir age and injury history. Jimmy wants a new contact as it is.
They floated Lauri which I would second. But made it clear we don’t have the assets to trade for him.
This would be a sick crunch time lineup though:
Fox
Monk
KM
Lauri
Domas
It’s fun to dream. The Finnisher would be A-mazing. I also like Kevin Durant if they can’t get Lauri.
Boston is stacked with talent – that Tatum/Brown/Holliday/White/Porzingas starting 5- Wow! To top it off, they have super Al Horford as a back up (great career, happy he got a ring) – this is simply not reproducible.
But in the Western Conference: OKC- MVP runner up SGA, Minn- 3 All-Stars (Ant/KAT/Gobert), DEN – 3 time MVP Jokic, Mavs- Luka (and Kyrie).
East: not as compelling and I place Sac close to Cavs overall. (Pacers and Orlando are around same talent, IMO, but they are more youth oriented other than Siakam)
Sac needs talent to rise in the West or hope they move to the Eastern Conf.
I think it easier to add talent then move- but it has to be by draft (luck and player development), shrewd trade, blockbuster deal, or FA signing (I’ve commented on this- it’s unlikely and they have little cap space).
Monte/Wes have to figure it out. It ain’t easy!
I can just sit back and comment (and I am also undefeated as a Head Coach).
Draft in 3 days!
Feels like this is going to be a wild week, I’m expecting plenty of trades during the week and during the draft.
It feels like Monte has something up his sleeve.
Bucks are reportedly looking to trade Brook, but he’s too old, give me Portis for KH.
McCain just worked out with the Kings. He’s a projected mid-first round pick.
https://x.com/SeanCunningham/status/1804977939823620352
He would be a solid pick. Especially if Davion is moved.
Is he a power forward?
“Positionless Basketball”!!!!!!!!
Run it back.
I have been on the Holmes and the Silva train with the last couple of months and I’m not jumping off
I like Holland by a mile, then Holmes, Ware, Carter, & Carrington
I’m curious what you see in Holland that you find significantly better than Holmes? Interested in understanding the perspective.
Well, you asked.
I believe both could contribute right away with their hustle and defense, with Holmes being the better floor-spacer and rim-protector. I see Holmes as being a good player pretty early into his career and stay that way, but I doubt he’ll ever be more than a really good (maybe great) role-player. Perfectly fine pick at #13.
I like Holland because not only does he bring that hustle and defense, he can do just everything well except shoot from range (24%). Some may disagree, but there isn’t really a reason to believe he can’t improve there as he shot 76% from the stripe. His jump-shotundeniably needs work but there is a long list of players who couldn’t shoot well when they were 18 but developed as they played more and aged (just for comparison – Fox shot 25%, Kawhi shot 20%, even Keegan shot 30% at that age). While with the Ignite, he was basically asked to develop his playmaking and ballhandling on a team with no spacing (and while sharing the #1 playmaking role with Buzelis) and he still produced, even if a bit inefficiently.
Offensively, he can make plays downhill and can finish through contact, gets to the line a lot and I think that will transition well to the NBA. If he ever develops a reliably-average 3pt shot, he will be a true 3-level scorer who can initiate his own shot and create for others (and could be best player in the draft). If he doesn’t, he would still be a good role-player on most teams.
Defensively, his motor generally prevents him from ever being out of position as he hustles everywhere he goes, rebounds like a bigger player, is very physical, gets a ton of deflections, and takes defending personal.
On the Kings, he would primarily be asked to cut, rebound and defend. He’ll get plenty of open 3s due to the better spacing and I imagine that alone will improve his shooting. On transition opportunities, he would be finisher that the Kings have been missing. How many fast break opportunities last year were wasted due to soft takes to the rim or backing the ball out when the King’s misplayed the 2-on-1. Holland is dunking on someone (or getting to the line).
Holland has an NBA-ready body at the SF position (barefoot 6’7″, 6’11” wingspan, 205lbs), he’s strong, explosive, and athletic, with a motor that won’t stop; and most importantly, he’s hyper-competitive (just has that dawg in him). Good rebounder, defender, and plays fast in transition while also going HARD at the basket. My personal take on Holland, I see a decent floor (good role-player) with the highest upside in the draft (potential star) and on top of that, I see him as an already distressed asset due to the just how bad the Ignite team was last year (6-44, they were so bad the NBA shut the team down). When Holland was in the FIBA U17 World Cup, he was the tournament’s 2nd most efficient player (only behind his USA teammate and likely top pick in the 2025 draft, Cooper Flagg).
IMHO, I think he would the steal of the draft if he’s still there at 13, I just don’t think he will be.
Thank you, I appreciate the perspective!
And you’re definitely right that the Kings have really been missing a finisher. The highlight reel I watched definitely showed he has that skill in spades. I suspect he may be gone by the time the Kings pick, but based on what I’ve seen, I wouldn’t be disappointed if he lands on our roster.
I watched highlight reels of Holland and Holmes yesterday. I’m not a GM but Holland looks like a bit of a one dimensional drive-to-the-basket guy on offense. The highlights didn’t show much other than that, so I didn’t get a sense of his defense or all around game. He definitely drives to the basket with authority but also seemed to do so in somewhat ill-advised circumstances without looking to dish.
Based on what I saw of Holmes, I’m surprised that he’s not being mentioned in many lottery conversations. The highlights I saw showed a really well rounded player. He seems to have a really solid court vision and aptitude for finding the open man. He also shoots well from three.
I don’t watch a lot of college basketball, so I don’t have full context. Because I’m reliant on highlight reels, that probably gives a skewed view of player strengths. But even so, I’m not clear on why it is that Holland is generally ranked quite a bit higher than Holmes. I think Holmes would fit in really well with the Kings’ style of play.
The main knock on Holmes that I’ve seen is that he didn’t play at a school in a power conference like the ACC or SEC and therefore didn’t play against top shelf competition. That and perhaps he’s not an elite athlete, however that’s defined.
I don’t know, but he looks like a pretty good prospect to me!
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