Could Sacramento consider adding members from Monday's national champion? Here's how Elliot Cadeau could fit.
The Sacramento Kings have fans hoping they build a future championship contender after this season wraps up.
It not only starts with the NBA Draft or free agency, but now it can include looking closer into Monday's national champions.
The Kings were off Monday as Michigan held off UConn with the national crown on the line.
One would think general manager Scott Perry and head coach Doug Christie will seek proven winners, and not just ultra talented players on the hardwood.
Michigan players have done well in the NBA before. Kings fans recall a beloved past Wolverine in Chris Webber, who became a perennial All-Star for Sacramento.
Now the next set of Wolverines will bring championship pedigree. Time to look closely at which members of the Wolverines can fit the Kings before the NBA Draft. Starting with Monday's Most Outstanding Player Elliot Cadeau.
Cadeau can ignite offense as point guard
Head coach Dusty May once lured in a turnover prone point guard out of North Carolina.
But May turned him into a slasher, scorer and selfless facilitator during this title run.
Cadeau dished out 10 assists in two NCAA Tournament games while on their way to the national championship. UConn, however, swung the game open for him to take over.
The Huskies clearly wanted to neutralize the front court through Tarris Reed Jr. and their bigs. But that allowed Cadeau to take advantage off his shooting touch and attacks through the lane, ending with 19 total points.
That means Cadeau can come in and play the role of closer on the floor. He got hot from 3-point land to help bury the Huskies.
He's buried other foes too from long range during Big Ten play. Cadeau would be a contender for sixth man duties early on but also provide a soft shooting touch.
Cadeau can learn from legend
There's a feeling Russell Westbrook will return next season even at age 38.
Cadeau can pick his brain and learn from one of the league's greatest combinations of scorer and passer.
Learning from Westbrook isn't the only good omen for Cadeau here.
He has DeMar DeRozan potentially on his side too. One thing is certain...he can team with Nique Clifford and Maxime Raynaud to form a young, talented trio if brought over.
Cadeau's NBA chances including potential Kings fit
He's not the most coveted NBA prospect on the champs. Plus teams including the Kings may shy away because of Cadeau's turnover history.
But he looked vastly changed from his North Carolina disappointment. Cadeau would walk into the league more confident and carrying a championship ring in tow.
The Kings should love his passer ability mixed with 3-point shooting. He could be a bargain in the second round if he comes out.
Join our ROUNDTABLE community! It's free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members.
Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!