Dylan Cardwell Brings Relentless Energy to a Struggling Kings Squad
The Sacramento Kings may be deep in the lottery conversation, but rookie Dylan Cardwell is giving fans something real to cheer for - and it’s not just about box score numbers. It’s about hustle, heart, and a level of energy that’s impossible to ignore.
Wednesday night’s 122-109 home loss to the Toronto Raptors marked the Kings’ third straight defeat and capped off a tough seven-game homestand. Their record now sits at 12-30, and while the season’s trajectory leans more toward draft position than playoff contention, Cardwell’s rise has been a bright spot in an otherwise dim campaign.
The 6-foot-10 undrafted rookie didn’t light up the scoreboard - just four points on the night - but he made his presence felt in every other way. Thirteen rebounds, including a jaw-dropping seven on the offensive glass, plus four blocks, tell the story of a player who doesn’t need the ball to make a major impact. Every possession he’s on the floor, he’s flying around, contesting shots, diving for loose balls, and bringing a level of intensity that’s quickly making him a fan favorite in Sacramento.
Cardwell’s energy is contagious. Whether it’s pumping up the crowd after a big block or celebrating a teammate’s bucket like he scored it himself, he plays with a joy and passion that’s hard not to root for. That attitude, combined with his athleticism and motor, has vaulted him into the conversation as one of the Kings’ most intriguing young pieces.
After the game, Cardwell reflected on what it means to be in the league - and how far he’s come.
“No one thought I was an NBA player,” he told reporters. “I’m not supposed to be here.”
But here he is - and he’s making the most of every minute.
“Every time I get on that court, it’s just the opportunity to showcase my God-given abilities and have fun with it,” Cardwell said. “At the end of the day, I’m living my childhood dream.”
That mindset has been evident in his play. He’s not just showing up - he’s showing out.
In 18 games so far, all while on a two-way contract, Cardwell is averaging 4.7 points, 7.2 rebounds (including 3.1 offensive boards), and 1.6 blocks in just 19 minutes per game. Those are the kind of per-minute numbers that jump off the page - especially for a guy who wasn’t even drafted.
And it’s not just about stats. His timing on the glass, particularly on the offensive end, has been a revelation.
He’s giving the Kings second and third chances on possessions that would otherwise be dead in the water. That kind of effort isn’t just valuable - it’s culture-setting.
The Kings may not be stacking wins right now, but they might just be uncovering something more important: a foundational piece for the future. Between Cardwell and 2025 second-round pick Maxime Raynaud, Sacramento’s frontcourt could be taking shape in real time.
For now, the Kings are still searching for consistency and direction. But in Dylan Cardwell, they’ve found a player who brings it every night - effort, energy, and the kind of underdog story that resonates with fans and teammates alike.
The record may not show it, but something’s building in Sacramento. And Cardwell’s right at the center of it.