Dylan Cardwell Making His Case: Why the Kings' Rebuild Needs His Energy and Edge
The Sacramento Kings have officially entered the next phase of their rebuild, and if there’s a silver lining to the roster shakeups and injury setbacks, it’s the emergence of young talent ready to seize the moment. With the team clearing roster space following a multi-team trade that sent two players to Cleveland and another to Chicago-bringing De’Andre Hunter to Sacramento-the Kings are signaling a clear shift toward development and long-term growth. And right at the heart of that movement is Dylan Cardwell.
Cardwell, who went undrafted in 2025, has been one of the more compelling stories of the Kings’ season. Signed to a two-way deal in the offseason, he started the year in the G League before being called up during the Kings’ injury-plagued December. Since then, he’s done more than just fill in-he’s carved out a role that looks increasingly permanent.
Let’s be clear: Cardwell belongs on an NBA roster. He’s arguably the best shot blocker the Kings have right now-just ask the Wizards, who saw him swat away three shots in a single game.
His scoring numbers aren’t eye-popping, but his presence is felt. He’s a high-energy finisher who thrives on rim-running and lob plays, and he brings a physicality that Sacramento has sorely needed off the bench.
But it’s not just about the stats. What makes Cardwell stand out is the intangible stuff-the energy, the hustle, the way he lights up Golden 1 Center after a big block or a thunderous dunk.
He plays every minute like he’s fighting to stay in the league, and that kind of edge resonates with fans and teammates alike. There’s a real connection between Cardwell and the Sacramento crowd, and it’s not hard to see why.
He’s grateful, he’s gritty, and he plays with purpose.
The Kings’ rebuild isn’t just about collecting draft picks or clearing cap space-it’s about building a culture. And players like Cardwell are exactly the kind of foundation pieces that help establish that identity.
He’s already proven he can contribute. Now, with roster space available, the next logical step is to convert his two-way deal into a full-time contract.
He’s not the only young player making strides, either. Rookie center Maxime Raynaud stepped up in a big way when Domantas Sabonis was sidelined, earning a spot on the Kia Rookie Ladder thanks to his poise and production in the starting lineup.
Nique Clifford, too, has started to find his rhythm after a slow start to the season. His confidence is growing, and he’s beginning to assert himself more on both ends of the floor.
But among this promising group, Cardwell’s rise feels especially urgent. He’s not just holding his own-he’s impacting games. He’s doing the dirty work, protecting the rim, diving for loose balls, and giving the Kings a spark when they need it most.
The front office seems to understand what they’ve got in Cardwell. The coaching staff clearly trusts him.
The fans are already on board. With the roster now in flux and the rebuild fully underway, it’s time to make it official: Dylan Cardwell has earned his spot.
He’s not just a feel-good story-he’s part of the Kings’ future.