Maxime Raynaud is quietly making waves in his rookie season with the Sacramento Kings, putting up numbers that could place him among the best first-year big men in the franchise's Sacramento era. Averaging 10.9 points and 7.2 rebounds while shooting an impressive 56% from the field in just 25 minutes per game, Raynaud is flirting with a double-double pace-a feat that stands out in Kings history.
Let's put this in context. Only a few Kings rookie bigs have matched or exceeded Raynaud's current production.
DeMarcus Cousins posted 14.1 points and 8.6 rebounds in the 2010-11 season. Marvin Bagley had 14.9 points and 7.6 rebounds in 2018-19.
Brian Grant delivered 13.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks in 1994-95, while Jason Thompson recorded 11.1 points and 7.4 rebounds in 2008-09.
Raynaud's field goal percentage of 56% is the best among these players, and he’s achieving this in fewer minutes, just slightly less than Bagley. When comparing their Per 36 statistics, Raynaud’s rebounding (10.4 per 36) holds its own against Cousins (10.9) and Bagley (10.8), and surpasses Thompson (9.5) and Grant (9.4).
Remarkably, Raynaud was a second-round pick (42nd overall), while the others were lottery selections. Currently, he ranks 5th on the NBA’s rookie ladder, underscoring his impact on the court.
With his playing time at 25 minutes per game, there's potential for even greater production. His Per 36 projections suggest 15.7 points and 10.4 rebounds, hinting at a bright future.
The Kings' draft history isn't exactly overflowing with Hall of Fame talent, especially among big men. Notable rookie seasons have often come from guards like Kenny Smith, Jason Williams, Tyreke Evans, and Tyrese Haliburton. De’Aaron Fox, for instance, averaged 11.6 points and 4.4 assists in his rookie year.
Other standout rookies include small forwards like Walt Williams, who averaged 17 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3 assists in 1992-93, Billy Owens with 14.3 points and 8 rebounds in 1991-92, and Lionel Simmons, who posted 18 points, 8.8 rebounds, and 4 assists in 1990-91. Keegan Murray also impressed with his three-point shooting, averaging 12.2 points and 4.6 rebounds.
Raynaud is emerging as a key rotational player, offering a glimmer of hope for the Kings' future. Alongside fellow rookie big man Dylan Cardwell, who boasts a Per 36 of 9.1 points, 13 rebounds, 2.7 blocks, and 1.3 steals, the Kings are building a promising frontcourt duo. Add in the potential of their upcoming draft picks, and Sacramento's future is looking brighter.