Latest news with #pointguards
Yahoo
20-07-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Ranking The 25 Greatest NBA Point Guards Of All Time
Ranking The 25 Greatest NBA Point Guards Of All Time originally appeared on Fadeaway World. Debating the greatest point guard in NBA history is always very personal, passionate, and liable to spark a firestorm. But when you sift through raw skill, accolades, dominance, clutch performance, longevity, and cultural impact, a clear hierarchy emerges. These 25 men ran offenses and essentially rewrote the playbook. We probably already have heard about the likes of Magic Johnson, the 6'9" phenom who practically invented 'Showtime", the greatest shooter ever, Stephen Curry, and even superstar-caliber guards such as Steve Nash and Jason Kidd. Even from there, it's a velvet-rope list of big names: Oscar Robertson, the original triple-double machine and two-time champ; Isiah Thomas, the Bad Boy spearhead. We haven't even mentioned John Stockton, the NBA's all-time assist leader, and even Bob Cousy, who was the first superstar floor general. So what's the ordering? Here is our definitive countdown of the 25 greatest point guards of all time. 25. Maurice Cheeks Player Stats: 11.1 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 6.7 APG, 2.1 SPG, 0.3 BPG Career Accolades: 1982-83 NBA Champion, 4x All-Star, 5x All-Defensive Team Selection, Hall of Fame Maurice Cheeks anchored one of the most fearsome defensive backcourts ever. Averaging 11.1 PPG, 6.7 APG, and 2.1 SPG, he was a four-time All-Defensive First Team selection. He led the 1983 Sixers to a championship, was an All-Star four times, and pioneered guard-level toughness and poise. Upon retirement, he ranked fifth in NBA history for assists and first in steals, and later transitioned seamlessly into coaching, including roles as head coach and assistant. His rock-solid floor management, defensive focus, and unshakeable leadership round out your list at 25. 24. Penny Hardaway Player Stats: 15.2 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.4 BPG Career Accolades: 4x All-Star, 3x All-NBA Team Selection Standing 6'7", Penny Hardaway was the rare unicorn who could orchestrate, score, and guard at an elite level. Early in his career, he averaged 20/6/5 and, alongside Shaquille O'Neal, took Orlando to the 1995 Finals, posting 24.5 PPG and 8 APG against Houston. Four-time All-Star, three-time All-NBA, Hardaway was on track to redefine point guard size and skill. Aging and injuries eroded his trajectory, but his early-career nous, versatility, and pedigree earned him a spot here at 24. 23. Chauncey Billups Player Stats: 15.2 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.2 BPG Career Accolades: 2003-04 NBA Champion, 2003-04 Finals MVP, 5x All-Star, 3x All-NBA Team Selection, 2x All-Defensive Team Selection, Hall of Fame Chauncey Billups earned his moniker by hitting the clutch shot that sealed a historic 2004 Finals upset over the Lakers. He averaged 15.2 PPG and 5.4 APG, earning 5 All-Star nods, 3 All-NBA honors, and 2 All-Defense selections, while bagging Finals MVP for his cerebral, ice-cold command. A veteran leader respected even into his late-career Denver stint, Billups anchored contenders and was repeatedly praised for his steady locker room presence. His longevity and clutch reputation make him one of the most complete and respected leaders in point guard lore. 22. Dave Bing Player Stats: 20.3 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 6.0 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.2 BPG Career Accolades: 7x All-Star, 3x All-NBA Team Selection, 1967-68 Scoring Champion, 1966-67 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame While Bing is often forgotten and perhaps not known by the modern audience, he was a 20-point-per-game scorer, a 7-time All-Star, a Rookie of the Year, and a 1967-68 scoring champion. His impact went beyond the court: after retiring, Bing served as Detroit's mayor, cementing his place in the annals of influential player-citizens. He's a prototype for skill-forward guards, charging scoring and leadership roles when the point guard still played a hybrid scorer/distributor role in the 60s and 70s. Had Bing played today, his skillet would have translated perfectly. 21. Tim Hardaway Player Stats: 17.7 PPG, 3.3 RPG, 8.2 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.1 BPG Career Accolades: 5x All-Star, 5x All-NBA Team Selection, Hall of Fame Tim Hardaway's career was an on-court thrill ride; his lethal 'UTEP Two‑Step' crossover made defenders look silly and packed arenas. He hit 10,000 points and 2,500 assists faster than anyone except Oscar Robertson, achieved in just 262 games. A five-time All-Star and All-NBA selection, Hardaway routinely put up monster stat lines: he twice averaged 20 PPG with 10 APG and terrorized playoff defenses with multiple 8-steal games. His prime in Golden State's 'Run TMC' era was electrifying; he was the sparkplug of a fan-favorite trio that turned fast-paced offense into art. Though defensive lapses and injuries clipped the tail end of his career, his blend of scoring, playmaking, and flair solidifies him here at 21. 20. Lenny Wilkens Player Stats: 16.5 PPG, 4.7 RPG, 6.7 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.2 BPG Career Accolades: 9x All-Star, 1969-70 Assist Champion, Hall of Fame Lenny Wilkens combined scoring (16.5 PPG), rebounding (4.7 RPG), and passing (6.7 APG) into a platform of consistency. A nine-time All-Star and the '70 assist leader, he later parlayed playing savviness into a Hall-of-Fame coaching legacy. As a player, his understanding and steady hand translated into team balance year after year. He symbolized longevity, not flashy, but effective, and paved the way for the analytical-minded guards to come. 19. Luka Doncic Player Stats: 28.6 PPG, 8.6 RPG, 8.2 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.5 BPG Career Accolades: 5x All-Star, 5x All-NBA Team Selection, 2023-24 Scoring Champion, 2018-19 Rookie of the Year In just a few seasons, Luka Doncic has started to rewrite record books: averaging nearly 28/9/8 and earning five All-Star nods, five All-NBA selections, a scoring title, and Rookie of the Year. His size, court vision, and clutch scoring at 6'7' make him a positionless nightmare for defenses, and he already has a Finals appearance to his name. Still, Luka's prime lies ahead, and that's why he sits here at 19. He's on a Hall-of-Fame trajectory, but heritage matters. Until he secures deep playoff runs or a title, his status will hover between superstar and all-time legend-in-waiting. What he's done is astonishing; what he may yet become could redefine the list entirely. 18. Nate Archibald Players Stats: 18.8 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 7.4 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG Career Accolades: 1980-81 NBA Champion, 6x All-Star, 5x All-NBA Team Selection, 1972-73 Scoring Champion, 1972-73 Assist Champion, Hall of Fame Tiny Archibald led the league in both scoring and assists (1972-73), a feat unreplicated since. With 18.8 PPG, 7.4 APG, he was lightning quick and battle-hardened. A six-time All-Star and a champion in 1981, Archibald was a perimeter heater who commanded every facet of offense. His championships with the Boston Celtics showed versatility across eras because he was 32 years old at the time. Essentially, Archibald left a blueprint for do-it-all guards, getting buckets, setting teammates, and smiling through it all. 17. Damian Lillard Players Stats: 25.1 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 6.7 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.3 BPG Career Accolades: 9x All-Star, 7x All-NBA Team Selection, 2012-13 Rookie of the Year Not just the deep-shot king, Damian Lillard's rangy frame and fearless demeanor produced jaw-dropping shots across seven All-NBA selections. A true multi-season 25/4/7 performer, Lillard is the ultimate modern mid-size point guard: sniper and motivational force tied to his city. He anchored Portland's identity, expecting greatness from teammates and delivering it himself. While championship glory has eluded him, his late-game heroics and loyalty made him the face of an entire franchise, and we hope he can one day win a title. 16. Dennis Johnson Player Stats: 14.1 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 5.0 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.6 BPG Career Accolades: 3x NBA Champion, 1978-79 Finals MVP, 5x All-Star, 2x All-NBA Team Selection, 9x All-Defensive Team Selection, Hall of Fame 'D.J.' was the archetype of clutch. A three-time champion ('79 Finals MVP included), five All-Star, a nine-time All-Defense, and a constant defensive nightmare for opposing guards. From Seattle to Phoenix and Boston, Johnson embodied grit and defensive brilliance. His mid-career trade to the Celtics unlocked a new role: deadly clutch scoring, lockdown defense, and chemistry with Larry Bird, earning him legendary status. His number's in the rafters, but his redemptive arc from misunderstood to cornerstone is what lives forever. 15. Derrick Rose Players Stats: 17.4 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 5.2 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.3 BPG Career Accolades: 2010-11 MVP, 3x All-Star, 2010-11 All-NBA Team Selection, 2008-09 Rookie of the Year Derrick Rose's ascension was breathtaking: at 22, he became the youngest MVP ever (2011), averaging 25 PPG, nearly 8 APG, and 4 RPG. His explosive drives and 40' vertical jump made him a highlight trap. But injuries struck, ACL tears that derailed a sky-high trajectory. What followed was nothing short of legendary resilience. He reinvented himself, weathering injuries to remain productive and respected, earning a jersey retirement by the Bulls. Rose's MVP season remains a true stamp of rare athletic primacy, even if that season was brief. 14. Tony Parker Players Stats: 15.5 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 5.6 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.1 BPG Career Accolades: 4x NBA Champion, 2006-07 Finals MVP, 6x All-Star, 4x All-NBA Team Selection, Hall of Fame Tony Parker wasn't the most explosive athlete, but his speed, blinding and surgical, regularly disassembled defenses. A four-time champ and the Finals MVP in 2007, Parker's Euro-step took over an era. With solid averages (15.5 PPG, 5.6 APG) and six All-Star selections, he brought European finesse into the Spurs' championship DNA. Parker's legacy is quiet efficiency: precision playmaking, high shooting accuracy, and the ability to thrive in clutch moments. His leadership and adaptability in Gregg Popovich's system helped San Antonio become the league's constant contender. If this were a list of purely championships won alone, Parker would probably rank a lot higher 13. Walt Frazier Players Stats: 18.9 PPG, 5.9 RPG, 6.1 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.2 BPG Career Accolades: 2x NBA Champion, 7x All-Star, 6x All-NBA Team Selection, 7x All-Defensive Team Selection, Hall of Famer Walt 'Clyde' Frazier combined breath‑stealing defense with silky offense. His 1.9 SPG, 5.9 RPG, and 6.1 APG reflect his two-way dominance. A seven-time All-Star and six-time All-NBA guard, he anchored the Knicks' first-ever NBA titles (1970, 1973) with two-way consistency and swing-man scoring. More than numbers, Frazier brought swagger: on-court swagger and flair off it, becoming a cultural icon in New York. He blended defense with grace, reputation with results, defining what a point guard could be in reputation and reality. 12. Russell Westbrook Players Stats: 21.2 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 8.0 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.3 BPG Career Accolades: 2016-17 MVP, 9x All-Star, 9x All-NBA Team Selection, 2x Scoring Champion, 3x Assist Champion Among everything else, Russell Westbrook continues to redefine hustle. He owns the NBA record for career triple-doubles, finished a 2017 MVP season with 31 triple-doubles, and has accounted for 9x All-Star and 9x All-NBA honors. Everywhere he goes, Thunder, Lakers, Clippers, Nuggets, his intense motor and fearless driving energize teammates and arenas alike. Westbrook's inefficiency and defensive lapses occasionally weigh on his efficiency, but his sheer force of will and statistical dominance make him impossible to ignore. He may not redefine efficiency and control like his peers, but no one embodies determination like Russ, one of the most criticized players in NBA history. 11. Kyrie Irving Players Stats: 23.7 PPG, 4.1 RPG, 5.6 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.4 BPG Career Accolades: 2015-16 NBA Champion, 9x All-Star, 3x All-NBA Team Selection, 2011-12 Rookie of the Year Kyrie Irving's game is a highlight reel, exquisite handles, mid‑range craft, and a game-winning mindset that peaked with his iconic three‑pointer in Game 7 of the 2016 NBA Finals. Averaging 23.7 PPG, 5.6 APG, and 1.3 SPG, he punched above his weight despite sharing the court with LeBron. His offensive arsenal is tremendous: Euro-step finishes, pull-up triples, and dizzying crossovers that consistently break defenders' ankles. Yet Irving's career is a mosaic of brilliance and "what-ifs." While he earned a ring early, six All-Star nods, and three All-NBA selections, moments of personal controversy and lack of playoff stability with Cleveland and Brooklyn have clouded his peak. Still, at his best, he's a generational talent, perhaps the purest offensive assassin the 3-point era has produced. 10. Bob Cousy Players Stats: 18.4 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 7.5 APG Career Accolades: 6x NBA Champion, 1956-1957 MVP, 13x All-Star, 12x All-NBA Team Selection, 8x Assist Champion, Hall of Fame Before modern flash, there was Bob Cousy, the man who introduced behind-the-back passes in the 1950s. Career stats of 18.4 PPG, 7.5 APG may seem modest today, but in his era, he was revolutionary. He won six titles and the first-ever MVP award alongside Bill Russell in '57, becoming the NBA's first true megastar. Cousy's vision and ballhandling popularized the point guard position, the first real floor general whose flair on the court translated into cultural influence. Without him, the guard evolution wouldn't have snapped into place. Yes, it was long ago, and some of the video clips of him dribbling seem forgettable, but Cousy was the OG of point guards. 9. Gary Payton Players Stats: 16.3 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 6.7 APG, 1.8 SPG, 0.2 BPG Career Accolades: 2005-06 NBA Champion, 9x All-Star, 9x All-NBA Team Selection, 9x All-Defensive Team Selection, 1995-96 Defensive Player of the Year, 1995-96 Steals Champion, 1990-91 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame Gary "The Glove" Payton was a winning player, make no mistake about that. Averaging 16.3 PPG, 6.7 APG, and 1.8 SPG, he was a menace on the perimeter and one of the fiercest defenders the league has seen. In 1996, he became the only point guard in NBA history to win Defensive Player of the Year, and the only one to share that honor with Marcus Smart until this day. That same season, he led the league in steals and locked down opponents with relentlessness and attitude. A champion in 2006, a nine-time All-Star, and a nine-time All-Defense selection, Payton defined defensive dominance at the point guard position. 8. Chris Paul Players Stats: 18.3 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 9.4 APG, 2.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG Career Accolades: 12x All-Star, 11x All-NBA Team Selection, 9x All-Defensive Team Selection, 5x Assist Champion, 6x Steals Champion, 2005-06 Rookie of the Year When Chris Paul arrived in 2005, he brought ice-water composure. Averaging 18.3 PPG, 9.4 APG, and 2.1 SPG, his statistical imprint demanded respect. He led the league in assists five times and steals six times. He wasn't just a general; he was also the game's defensive pest on both the stat sheet and on the court. His leadership has lifted almost every team, Hornets, Clippers, Rockets, Thunder, Suns, to higher ceilings. His basketball IQ is elite, his midrange scoring spot-on, and his tenacious defense made him a perfect point guard. Not winning the NBA title in 2021 is probably the only reason he isn't in the top five. 7. Steve Nash Players Stats: 14.3 PPG, 3.0 RPG, 8.5 APG, 0.7 SPG, 0.1 BPG Career Accolades: 2x MVP, 8x All-Star, 7x All-NBA Team Selection, 5x Assist Champion, Hall of Fame Steve Nash didn't overwhelm with jaw-dropping career stats, 14.3 PPG and 8.5 APG, but he manipulated defenses like a grandmaster and was the original version of James Harden when it came to owning an offensive system. His back-to-back MVPs in '05 and '06 validated his elite impact. Nash's Suns didn't just score, they created a movement: 'Seven Seconds or Less' basketball that inspired today's pace. A perennial All-Star coach favorite, Nash prioritized ball movement and shot-making, and he is also one of the 10 greatest pure shooters in NBA history. 6. John Stockon Players Stats: 13.1 PPG, 2.7 RPG, 10.5 APG, 2.2 SPG, 0.2 BPG Career Accolades: 10x All-Star, 11x All-NBA Team Selection, 5x All-Defensive Team Selection, 9x Assist Champion, 2x Steals Champion, Hall of Fame John Stockton not having an NBA championship with a 0-2 Finals record is the only reason he isn't in the top five. Regardless, Stockton is the rock-solid rock upon which Utah's success was built. With career averages of 10.5 APG and 2.2 SPG, he redefined floor management. His assist dominance earned him nine seasons as the league's top passer. Stockton and Malone propelled the Jazz to back-to-back Finals, a vintage pick‑and‑roll show run nearly unmatched. Stockton was the embodiment of consistency and durability; he never missed a playoff game. A 10-time All-Star, a defensive stalwart, and the all-time leader in both assists and steals, he belongs firmly atop any elite point guard conversation. 5. Jason Kidd Players Stats: 12.6 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 8.7 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG Career Accolades: 2010-11 NBA Champion, 10x All-Star, 6x All-NBA Team Selection, 9x All-Defensive Team Selection, 5x Assist Champion, 1994-95 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame Jason Kidd was a triple-double artist before it became trendy. He compiled 12.6 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 8.7 APG, and was a supreme floor leader and defensive maestro. How many point guards are responsible for leading their team to back-to-back Finals without All-Star help? We will wait. His legendary court vision and rebounding from the point guard spot allowed his teams to flow at an elite level, and in 2011, he finally capped his career with an emotional championship for the Dallas Mavericks. Kidd's passing, defense, and late-career scoring tweaks prove he evolved continually. As a nine-time All-Defensive selection and Hall of Famer, his placement at five is no accident. 4. Isiah Thomas Players Stats: 19.2 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 9.3 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG Career Accolades: 2x NBA Champion, 1989-90 Finals MVP, 12x All-Star, 5x All-NBA Team Selection, 1984-85 Assist Champion, Hall of Fame Ask anyone who lived through the 1980s, and they will admit that Isiah Thomas was the heart and soul of the Bad Boys Pistons, a fearless leader built for clutch moments. His career stats (19.2 PPG, 9.3 APG) disguise a ferocity and competitive will that made him one of the greatest clutch performers ever. Two championships and a Finals MVP in 1990 underscore his playoff heroics. But his legacy is about pure swagger as well. Thomas' cold-blooded knockout punch to Bird in '84, the unselfishness of his leadership, and rivaling legends in that era define a player who delivered in the toughest of battles. A five-time All-NBA guard and Hall of Famer, Thomas was built for war, and he delivered year after year. You can argue against Isiah not being this high, but we aren't going to listen. 3. Stephen Curry Players Stats: 24.5 PPG, 4.4 RPG, 6.0 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.3 BPG Career Accolades: 4x NBA Champion, 2021-22 Finals MVP, 2x MVP, 7x All-Star, 11x All-NBA Team Selection, 2x Scoring Champion, 2015-16 Steals Champion Stephen Curry is the revolution of today's game. He changed defense with shooting, kicking off a three-point revolution that's reshaped modern offenses. Averaging 24.5 PPG and 6.0 APG, while posting elite shooting splits (including two scoring titles), he towers as the greatest shooter ever. Yet let's be honest: his game isn't without limitations. His lack of size and length remains a defensive Achilles heel, and that's why he misses the top two. Critically, we must resist recency bias: yes, Curry crafts offenses like Picasso, but regarding all-around impact when his shots aren't falling, he doesn't match Magic or Oscar as an all-around athlete or impact player. Still, for shooting alone, Curry is unmatched, and his four championships and two MVPs confirm his superstar status. We see that Curry's greatness arrives primarily through offense in an elite Golden State Warriors system, while the legends ahead of him impacted the game in every facet. 2. Oscar Robertson Players Stats: 25.7 PPG, 7.5 RPG, 9.5 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.1 BPG Career Accolades: 1970-71 NBA Champion, 1963-1964 MVP, 12x All-Star, 11x All-NBA Team Selection, 6x Assist Champion, 1960-1961 Rookie of the Year, Hall of Fame Oscar Robertson was basketball's first complete guard, an athletic marvel who averaged a triple-double (30.8 points, 12.5 rebounds, 11.4 assists) during the 1961-62 season. His 25.7 PPG, 7.5 RPG, and 9.5 APG career averages speak to a dominant all-around prowess. But beyond the numbers, he used his stature and skill to pioneer guard-centric scoring and rebounding. He shattered positional norms, combining size, vision, and physicality to lead the league in both points and assists. His role in pushing through the NBA free agency lawsuit laid the groundwork for players to control their careers. Robertson's championship pedigree and being the 1964 MVP cements him as the true blueprint for modern, multidimensional point guards. 1. Magic Johnson Players Stats: 19.5 PPG, 7.2 RPG, 11.2 APG, 1.9 SPG, 0.4 BPG Career Accolades: 5x NBA Champion, 3x Finals MVP, 3x MVP, 12x All-Star, 10x All-NBA Team Selection, 4x Assist Champion, 2x Steals Champion, Hall of Fame Earvin "Magic" Johnson built masterpieces on the hardwood, and he is without a doubt the GOAT of point guards. With career averages of 19.5 PPG, 7.2 RPG, and a still-unmatched 11.2 APG, he owns the all-time highest assists-per-game mark. His passing was poetic, revolutionizing fastbreak execution, creating the 'Showtime' identity of the 1980s Lakers. As a rookie, Magic famously played center in Game 6 of the 1980 Finals, posting 42 points, 15 rebounds, 7 assists, and earning Finals MVP, becoming the only rookie in NBA history to do so. Beyond five rings and three MVPs, Magic's impact transcended statistics. He ushered in a new era of positional versatility. At 6'9", he redefined what a point guard could be. His triple-doubles in Finals clinchers and league-leading assist titles underscore that he wasn't just a showman; he was the standard-bearer at his story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jul 17, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
17-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
5 Best Point Guards The Sacramento Kings Could Acquire This Offseason
5 Best Point Guards The Sacramento Kings Could Acquire This Offseason originally appeared on Fadeaway World. Sacramento is staring down the barrel of regret. Trading away Tyrese Haliburton cost them a Finals appearance, flipping De'Aaron Fox fizzled, and missing out on Luka Doncic and Damian Lillard still haunts the front office. Advertisement The Kings have missed out on superstar point guards and the franchise have done a terrible job in building a playoff contender. With their backcourt depleted, the Kings absolutely need a seismic upgrade at point guard. Here are the five best point guards they could realistically acquire and why each one makes sense in purple and black. 1. Ja Morant Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant (12) reacts during the second half against the Miami Heat at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn ImagesCredit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Sacramento Kings Receive: Ja Morant, Vince Williams Jr. Memphis Grizzlies Receive: DeMar DeRozan, Keegan Murray, Keon Ellis, 2025 No. 42 Overall pick, 2026 Second-Round pick, 2026 Second-Round pick (CHA), 2027 Second-Round pick, 2029 First-Round pick Still just 25, Ja Morant's explosive slashing ability and court vision (23.2 PPG, 7.3 APG this season) make him a franchise-altering talent. With his hip injury in the playoffs and off-court concerns, Memphis might no longer view him as untouchable, and the Kings could pounce. If there is a player whom a franchise can build around and pack fans into an arena, it is the Grizzlies' superstar. Advertisement For Sacramento, Morant would return elite athleticism, electrifying pace (ideal next to Sabonis), and highlight-reel playmaking. The risk: behavior red flags and a hefty max extension looming, but the high ceiling is undeniable if the Kings prioritize star upside over stability. 2. Trae Young Mar 12, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Atlanta Hawks guard Trae Young (11) points to the referee against the Charlotte Hornets during the second half at State Farm Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mady Mertens-Imagn Images Mandatory Credit: Mady Mertens-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Sacramento Kings Receive: Trae Young Atlanta Hawks Receive: DeMar DeRozan, Malik Monk, 2025 No. 42 Overall pick, 2026 Second-Round pick, 2027 Second-Round pick, 2029 First-Round pick Trae Young led the NBA in assists (11.6 APG) this season and continues to redefine the modern point guard with deep-range shooting and pick-and-roll wizardry. His 30/20 triple-double game and multiple 30+ point/10+ assist nights to begin the season prove he can dominate on both ends of the floor despite efficiency concerns. However, Young could be on the way out of Atlanta, with many teams that could put a solid trade package together. Advertisement In Sacramento, Young would provide pace, gravity, and ultimate ISO sourcing next to Domantas Sabonis. The mental projection: adapting from a mid-market rebuild in Atlanta to handling the pressure and accountability of Kings fans. Perhaps Trae would like a chance to play and live in California as well, because his playing style could demand that. 3. Darius Garland Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland (10) dribbles against the Phoenix Suns during the first half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn ImagesMandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Sacramento Kings Receive: Darius Garland, Craig Porter Cleveland Cavaliers Receive: DeMar DeRozan, Jonas Valanciunas, Keon Ellis (Sign-and-Trade), 2025 No. 42 Overall pick, 2026 Second-Round pick, 2027 Second-Round pick Darius Garland is a bonafide star, this season averaging 20.6 PPG on 47.2% shooting and handing out 6.7 APG while earning his second All-Star nod. A floor general with shot creation, elite pull-up range (40.1% from deep), and improving playmaking, he led the Cleveland Cavaliers to the East's #1 seed. Advertisement Injury (toe surgery) delays trade talk, but Sacramento could view him as a long-term core piece with both upside and professionalism. His fit: he meshes well with an all-offense core and brings leadership to a young, hungry locker room. At 25 years old, Garland could be the player the Kings can finally hold onto at the point guard position. 4. Coby White Apr 6, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Chicago Bulls guard Coby White (0) stands on the court during the first quarter against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-Imagn ImagesMandatory Credit: Nell Redmond-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Sacramento Kings Receive: Coby White Chicago Bulls Receive: Keegan Murray, Terence Davis, 2026 Second-Round pick, 2027 Second-Round pick Coby White has taken off this season as a genuine lead guard, earning back-to-back Eastern Player of the Week honors (30.3 PPG, 4 APG outburst). His growth in finishing, three-level scoring, and now off-ball play alongside Josh Giddey shows he can thrive in multiple guard rotations. However, White could be one of the players who could leave the Bulls after another disappointing season. Advertisement At 25, on a modest salary ($12,888,889 in 2025-26) and still ascending, he gives the Kings a high-upside, controllable option who can run spacing lineups or take over games himself. Expect fit and cost to be compelling, especially as Sacramento targets both runway and affordability. 5. Dejounte Murray Dec 15, 2024; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; New Orleans Pelicans guard Dejounte Murray (5) dribbles the ball while Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard (2) defends in the first half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images Proposed Trade Details Sacramento Kings Receive: Dejounte Murray New Orleans Pelicans Receive: Malik Monk, Jonas Valanciunas, 2025 No. 42 Overall pick, 2026 Second-Round pick, 2027 Second-Round pick Though rehabbing from Achilles surgery, Dejounte Murray averaged nearly 17.5 PPG alongside 7.4 APG and 2.0 SPG before going down. He'd bring elite playmaking, defense, and athleticism, a near two-way floor general to anchor pick-and-rolls. Remember, Murray is a player who is a prodigy of Gregg Popovich's mentorship on both ends of the court. Advertisement The risk is the recovery timeline and big salary, but if healthy, he's a transformative fit in a Kings backcourt craving playmaking grit. Murray won't make the Kings an immediate playoff contender, but he is a great backup option if all else fails. Related: Sacramento Kings Have Lost 3 Superstar Point Guards Since 2018 This story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on Jun 12, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
17-06-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Sacramento Kings Have Lost 3 Superstar Point Guards Since 2018
Sacramento Kings Have Lost 3 Superstar Point Guards Since 2018 originally appeared on Fadeaway World. The Sacramento Kings' front office has been under scrutiny for a series of decisions that have cost the franchise dearly. In a league where elite point guard play is paramount, the Kings have managed to part ways with three potential superstars in a relatively short span. Advertisement These decisions, coupled with a history of draft missteps, have left fans and analysts questioning the direction and vision of the organization. Let's go through the list of terrible decisions made by the Kings franchise and it will be shocking once names like Luka Doncic and Tyrese Halliburton get mentioned. 1. Drafting Marvin Bagley III Over Luka Doncic Feb 5, 2022; Sacramento, California, USA; Sacramento Kings forward Marvin Bagley III (35) warms up before the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-Imagn ImagesMandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images In the 2018 NBA Draft, the Kings held the second overall pick and selected Marvin Bagley III, a decision that has since been heavily criticized. Luka Doncic, who was selected third by the Dallas Mavericks, has emerged as one of the league's premier talents, earning five All-Star selections and leading his team to the NBA Finals last year. He is now the face of the Los Angeles Lakers. Advertisement Bagley, on the other hand, struggled with injuries and inconsistent play during his tenure in Sacramento, failing to live up to the expectations of a second overall pick. The decision to pass on Doncic was reportedly influenced by then-general manager Vlade Divac, who had personal reservations about Doncic's fit with the team. This choice has become emblematic of the Kings' struggles in talent evaluation and has had long-term implications for the franchise's competitiveness. Bagley III has averaged 12.0 points and 6.5 rebounds per game so far in his career and has appeared in 289 games in seven seasons as a role player. 2. Trading Tyrese Haliburton to Build Around De'Aaron Fox Tyrese Haliburton (0) watching on as a member of the Sacramento Kings. Credit: Hoops Habit In a surprising move during the 2022 season, the Kings traded promising young guard Tyrese Haliburton to the Indiana Pacers in exchange for Domantas Sabonis. Haliburton, who had quickly become a fan favorite and showed significant potential as a floor general, expressed his disappointment, stating, "They didn't want me... It hurt when I got traded". Advertisement While Sabonis has been a productive player for Sacramento, Haliburton's subsequent rise in Indiana, including two All-Star selections and impressive assist numbers (league-leading 10.9 APG last season), has led many to question the wisdom of the trade. It doesn't help that Haliburton has led the Pacers to back-to-back Eastern Conference Finals appearances either. The decision to prioritize Fox over Haliburton, only to later trade Fox as well, underscores a lack of clear long-term planning within the organization. If the Kings had Haliburton now, they would have likely been in the postseason rather than in the lottery consistently. 3. Trading De'Aaron Fox to Start Rebuild Sacramento Kings guard De'Aaron Fox (5) reacts during the second quarter against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images In February 2025, the Kings traded De'Aaron Fox to the San Antonio Spurs as part of a three-team deal that brought Zach LaVine to Sacramento. Fox, who had been the face of the franchise and led the team to its first playoff appearance in 16 years, was moved in a deal that signaled a shift towards rebuilding. Advertisement The trade raised eyebrows, especially considering Fox's contributions and leadership. His departure, following the earlier trade of Haliburton, left the Kings without a clear cornerstone at the point guard position. The acquisition of LaVine, while adding scoring punch, did not address the team's need for a primary playmaker, further highlighting the organization's inconsistent strategy. Fox is now a key member of the San Antonio Spurs alongside Victor Wembanyama and the Kings have to be thinking about their past decisions that led to this one. Kings Making Too Many Mistakes in Recent History The Kings' recent history is marred by a series of draft and personnel decisions that have hindered the franchise's progress. Beyond the aforementioned point guard missteps, the team selected Jimmer Fredette over Klay Thompson and Kawhi Leonard in 2011, and Thomas Robinson over Damian Lillard in 2012. Could it get any worse than this? Advertisement These choices have contributed to a prolonged period of underachievement and have almost destroyed the confidence of the fan base. As the Kings continue to search for a path forward, acknowledging and learning from these past mistakes will be crucial in rebuilding a competitive team. Until they show the proper resolve, it doesn't seem like the Kings will be going anywhere anytime soon unless it involves trading away their star players for a massive rebuild. No doubt, Kings fans will be utterly disgusted at the way the front office has gone about building a team in a competitive Western Conference. Related: The Worst Draft Mistakes In Sacramento Kings History: Luka Doncic And Devin Booker Would Be Title Contenders Every Year This story was originally reported by Fadeaway World on May 31, 2025, where it first appeared.
