The Sacramento Kings, 2-5 on the season, made a move to get stronger up front as they signed free agent journeyman Precious Achiuwa after the loss to the Denver Nuggets. In a corresponding move, the team waived center Isaac Jones. Achiuwa will assist with defense and backup Domantas Sabonis.
The Sacramento Kings, looking to get bigger up front and play stronger defensively, signed veteran free agent journeyman Precious Achiuwa. The team waived center Isaac Jones to free up a roster spot for Achiuwa, who was most recently in training camp with the Miami Heat.
Achiuwa can play center or power forward. The Kings definitely need depth at the power forward position with Keegan Murray out with for several more weeks with an injury. DeMar DeRozan has been playing there in his absence, but the depth is much needed.
The story was first reported by ESPN's Shams Charania on social media.
Jones has played with the Kings for portions of two seasons. He averaged 3.2 points and 1.4 rebounds while shooting 64.7 percent from the field over 43 games.
Frankie Cartoscelli of Sactown Sports 1140 took to social media to praise the signing and added that Sacramento is looking to win now and not later. By signing Achiuwa, the Kings add a banger and clanger to the front court and give some protection for Domantas Sabonis.
The former New York Knicks player is 26-years old and has career averages of 7.6 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. He has played in 320 career games and is known as a relentless defender. He brings a strong defensive mindset and can play fast in transition. This is the type of move fans have been clamoring for.
On another note, Zach LaVine is questionable to play in the next game Wednesday night as he struggled to get through the game Monday night with a sore back. He was held to a season-low 15 points and only made good on 4-of-11 shots from the field.
Coach Doug Christie will have a better idea after the shootaround on Wednesday. If LaVine cannot go, Keon Ellis could end up getting the start.
To make matters potentially worse, Sabonis also listed as questionable with sore ribs. He could miss his first game since the season opener due to a ribcage contusion he sustained Monday night. If Sabonis cannot go, Achiuwa or Drew Eubanks would see increased playing time.
Through six regular-season games, Sabonis has averaged 14.5 points, 14.2 rebounds, 4.0 assists and 1.2 steals in 34.7 minutes per outing.