As the NBA season progresses, the Sacramento Kings find themselves in a unique position. Despite having a lineup that includes three-time All-Star Domantas Sabonis and two-time All-Star Zach LaVine, both players have been sidelined for the remainder of the season. Alongside recent acquisition De'Andre Hunter, their absence has paved the way for the 'Young Kings'-Nique Clifford, Maxime Raynaud, Dylan Cardwell, and Devin Carter-to take center stage.
The Kings are among over ten teams eyeing the coveted No. 1 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, a draft that promises to be loaded with talent. With the focus on developing young prospects under the guidance of seasoned veterans, one might expect a heightened sense of urgency as the season winds down. However, according to Tom Haberstroh, the Kings don't even crack the top five in his tanking 'Power Rankings.'
Haberstroh's analysis, which considers factors like draft incentives and roster health, places the Kings lower than expected, despite their lack of recent playoff appearances and franchise-defining stars. He humorously questions whether the Kings are deliberately tanking or simply struggling, noting that the absence of LaVine and Sabonis certainly aids their quest for the top draft pick.
The presence of seasoned players like DeMar DeRozan and Russell Westbrook might seem like potential obstacles to their strategy, but it hasn't halted their determined march down the standings. Haberstroh's list of the 11 most 'Tanktastic' teams also includes franchises like Dallas and Utah, each with their own narratives.
Dallas, after an unexpected draft lottery win in 2025 and the acquisition of Rookie of the Year frontrunner Cooper Flagg, has seen its urgency diminish. Meanwhile, Utah, despite adding 2023 Defensive Player of the Year Jaren Jackson Jr., has built a roster aiming to win, even if Jackson Jr.'s season was cut short by surgery.
Brooklyn, on the other hand, is actively developing their first-round rookies and remains linked to trade rumors involving Milwaukee's superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. With such assets, their inclusion above the Kings in tanking discussions seems unfounded.
In summary, while the Kings are undeniably in the mix for the top draft pick, their position in the tanking hierarchy is more complex than it appears. With a blend of strategic player development and veteran leadership, the Kings' journey towards the draft will be one to watch.