Kings keep their core and push for a playoff run rather than a full rebuild. Domantas Sabonis, DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine remain together, with Dennis Schroder stepping in as the new starting point guard. Sacramento drafted Nique Clifford and Maxime Raynaud, and the franchise added a sign-and-trade for Schroder, signaling a calculated bet on immediate competitiveness.

The offseason also carried strong links to Jonathan Kuminga and Russell Westbrook, illustrating Sacramento’s willingness to chase high-upside upgrades. Sabonis hosted a youth camp and hinted at more changes before training camp, underscoring a flexible path as management under Scott Perry shapes the roster. The goal stays clear: improve depth and push into the playoff picture, with Sabonis’ future still a topic of careful talks and strategic maneuvering.

The Sacramento Kings showcased a remarkable talent at the NBA 2K26 Summer League in Las Vegas, where they reached the championship game, only to lose to the Charlotte Hornets. Despite the heart-wrenching defeat, the Kings’ roster saw several young players shine, earning them accolades as standout performers. Rookie guard Nique Clifford, selected 24th overall in the 2025 draft, was named to the All-Summer League First Team. Averaging 15.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, Clifford demonstrated his offensive prowess and ability to contribute defensively, solidifying his place as a crucial bench player for the upcoming season.

Meanwhile, center Isaac Jones, who went undrafted in 2024, proved he could earn a larger role within the Kings’ rotation with his impressive Summer League showing. With averages of 18.3 points on an astounding 64.6% shooting percentage, along with 6.7 rebounds per game, Jones solidified his potential impact in the team’s lineup. Both players now head into the next season with renewed confidence and expectations, hoping to translate their Summer League success into significant contributions during the regular season.

The NBA 2K26 Summer League has showcased several rookies who may prove to be significant steals in the draft. Yang Hansen from the Portland Trail Blazers has emerged as a standout, averaging 3.3 blocks per 36 minutes and displaying playmaking skills with 5.5 assists per 36 minutes. Joan Beringer of the Minnesota Timberwolves has also impressed with his shot-blocking prowess, leading all rookies at 3.9 blocks per 36 minutes. Nique Clifford from the Sacramento Kings is drawing attention for his high Game Score and assist numbers, while Liam McNeeley and Brooks Barnhizer have also made strong cases for themselves as valuable additions. These players are not just tallying numbers; they are demonstrating skills that could translate effectively into the regular season.

The 2025 NBA draft class showcased its talent during the Las Vegas Summer League, headlined by the No. 1 pick, Cooper Flagg, who gained attention with a dramatic 31-point performance against the San Antonio Spurs. After struggling in his debut, Flagg’s impressive skills as a primary offensive creator were evident, particularly in facing full-court pressure. The Dallas Mavericks opted to shut him down after two games, but his impact was already felt.

No. 2 pick Dylan Harper also made waves, returning from a minor injury to demonstrate his defensive prowess and ability to draw fouls, though he struggled with his shooting from range. Meanwhile, the Chicago Bulls' No. 12 pick Noa Essengue revealed his raw talent amid the physicality of the league, while Sacramento Kings' Nique Clifford showed significant potential as a versatile asset. In addition, rookie performances from Charlotte Hornets' Liam McNeeley and Miami Heat's Kasparas Jakucionis added to a weekend filled with standout displays.