Sacramento player opts out of signing former 1st round pick

The Sacramento Kings they change the composition of their frontcourt. As Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints reported , the Kings are expected to waive rookie Isaac Jones if they can finalize a deal with free agent big man Precious Achiuva.

Shortly after that initial reportESPN’s Shams Charania confirmed that Achiuva has agreed to a deal with Sacramento, giving the Kings an experienced, athletic presence in the paint.

Achiuva, a former first-round pick (No. 20 overall in 2020), joined the Kings ahead of his sixth NBA season. Known for his rebounding, energy and defensive versatility, the 26-year-old forward brings exactly what Sacramento has been looking for as they navigate the absence of Keegan Murray, who is sidelined with a left thumb injury.

The move comes at a crucial time. Sacramento struggled to find a reliable production behind Domantas Sabonis and Zak Lavinespecially in the defensive part. Achiuva’s ability to switch to multiple positions and provide physicality near the rim could immediately help solidify the Kings’ rotation.

Meanwhile, Jones seems to be the odd man out. The undrafted rookie out of Washington impressed during training camp and the preseason, but had limited opportunities early in the regular season. Despite showing promise as an athletic, high-motor forward, his lack of experience likely factored into the decision as the Kings went for a win-win approach.

For Achiua, this represents a chance to re-establish himself after an uneven 2024 campaign with the New York Knicks. He averaged 7.6 points and 5.7 rebounds per game last season, rebounding as a defensive anchor and transition finisher.

The Kings currently hold a 2-5 record and are looking to stabilize their roster amid injuries and changes in the rotation. By adding Achiuva, they signal a clear intent to remain competitive in the Western Conference while providing depth around their core of DeMar DeRozan and Sabonis.

If the deal is finalized in the coming days, Achiuwa could be available for Sacramento’s upcoming matchup, potentially giving the Kings a much-needed boost on both ends of the floor.