In a challenging season for the Sacramento Kings, Dylan Cardwell has emerged as a beacon of hope. His vibrant energy, combined with top-tier rim protection and electrifying dunks, has quickly made him a fan favorite. However, an unfortunate injury has temporarily sidelined him, and the Kings need to ensure they handle his return with care.
Cardwell's journey to the NBA wasn't straightforward. Despite going undrafted in the 2025 NBA Draft, the Kings saw potential and signed him to a two-way contract. He spent the early part of the season honing his skills in the G League, where he delivered standout performances.
Then came a wave of injuries that swept through the Kings' roster, catapulting rookies like Maxime Raynaud into starting roles. Raynaud seized the opportunity, earning a spot on the Kia Rookie Ladder with his impressive play.
This injury spell also opened the door for Cardwell to step up to the main roster, where he quickly made his mark. As one of the league's top rookie shot blockers and rebounders, his performances were so compelling that the Kings upgraded him to a full NBA contract.
Yet, patience is crucial now. Cardwell suffered an ankle injury during a practice session over the All-Star break, sidelining him for at least 14 games. The Kings plan to reassess his condition in a month, but there's no guarantee he'll be ready to return immediately.
Sacramento must avoid the temptation to rush Cardwell back. While his defensive prowess is undeniable, the team's postseason hopes are already out of reach. Rushing him could risk further injury and prolong his recovery.
Even if Cardwell is cleared after 14 games, he'd only have 12 games left in the season. With the Kings unlikely to make a playoff push, bringing him back for a few games won't change their fortunes.
The smart play for the Kings is to focus on the future. This season may be winding down, but the offseason presents opportunities for strategic moves in the draft and potential trades. Allowing Cardwell ample time to heal will ensure he's ready to contribute fully next season, when the Kings will need him more than ever.