Has Precious Achiuwa Played Himself Out of the Sacramento Kings’ Budget?
Precious Achiuwa has been a standout for the Sacramento Kings in a challenging season, despite not joining the team until mid-November. Initially signed on a modest one-year $2.4 million deal, Achiuwa has exceeded expectations, stepping up amid a slew of injuries.
Before his Sacramento stint, Achiuwa averaged 7.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.0 assist per game across his time with Miami, Toronto, and New York. Re-signed by Miami before the 2025-26 season, he didn't make the final roster, opening the door for Sacramento's first-year GM Scott Perry to bring him in as a cost-effective fill-in for the injured Keegan Murray.
Achiuwa has proven his worth, upping his career averages and making a strong case for a pay raise. Recently, he's logged significant minutes and several 20+ point games.
Achiuwa's Season Stats: 9.6 PPG | 6.5 RPG | 1.3 APG | 53% FG | 23.4 MIN
The pressing question is whether the Kings can afford to keep him. With around $11 million in cap space next season before hitting the restrictive second apron, and factoring in a lottery pick and potential free agents, they may have $5-7 million to work with.
Players with similar stats have secured multi-year deals in the past. Andre Drummond, for example, posted comparable numbers before signing a two-year, $10 million contract with the 76ers.
Drummond's 2023-24 Stats: 8.4 PPG | 9.0 RPG | 0.5 APG | 55% FG
Offering Achiuwa $5 million annually could push the Kings to the second apron. Comparatively, Daniel Gafford, a key player for the Mavericks' 2024 Finals run, earns $17-19 million per year with similar offensive stats, though his defensive prowess sets him apart.
Contract negotiations in the NBA are complex, and it's unclear what Achiuwa seeks or if the Kings plan to re-sign him. What’s certain is Achiuwa’s commitment to winning, making him a valuable asset whether in Sacramento or elsewhere.
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The Kings are gearing up for a two-game homestand starting Friday against the New Orleans Pelicans. Sacramento is 0-2 against the Pelicans this season, including a 133-123 loss where Achiuwa shone with 29 points and 12 rebounds.
Catch all the Kings vs. Pelicans action on Sactown Sports 1140 AM, with pregame coverage starting at 2:00 PM PT on The Drive Guys before the 7:00 PM PT tip-off.
Upcoming Kings Schedule:
- Friday, April 3rd vs. New Orleans Pelicans - 7:00 PM PT
- Sunday, April 5th vs. Los Angeles Clippers - 6:00 PM PT
- Tuesday, April 7th @ Golden State Warriors - 7:00 PM PT
- Friday, April 10th vs.
Golden State Warriors - 7:00 PM PT
- Sunday, April 12th @ Portland Trail Blazers - 5:30 PM PT