The Sacramento Kings enter free agency in a difficult position. The biggest names in free agency that the Kings might actually have a shot at signing, such as Aaron Gordon, Julius Randle, or even a Clint Capela, are all big men. The Kings currently have 17 centers on the roster (estimated). 

Their biggest need is at small forward, and the free agent crop at small forward is dicey. Mario Hezonja and Jabari Parker could be intriguing, but Hezonja is still mostly unproven and Parker has a history of serious knee injuries. The other options, like Trevor Ariza, are too old and would be awful signings in line with Kings mistakes of the past.

It would make sense, then, for the Kings to look at trades. And according to ESPN’s Zach Lowe, that’s exactly what the Kings are doing. 

There are several teams that could be looking to free up cap space this summer instead of waiting for 2019. The Kings could capitalize on that to acquire young players or draft assets as sweeteners. This is how smart teams rebuild. It’s the reason the Kings don’t own their 2019 pick. Vlade Divac traded it to Sam Hinkie to clear cap space. 

If nothing else it’s encouraging to hear the Kings are at least exploring all options.