With multiple second-round picks, Sacramento eyes a versatile defensive anchor whose floor-spacing potential and rim protection could bolster the frontcourt through a priority free-agent signing.
The Sacrmento Kings have two second-round picks -- Nos. 34 and 45 -- expanding the range of prospects to choose from in the 2026 NBA Draft in 10 days.
Lorenzo J. Reyna and Matthew Feldman of the KingsRoundtable have covered various prospects who are likely second-round picks: Tennessee's Ja'Kobi Gillespie, Purdue's Braden Smith and Arkansas' Trevon Brazile.
Saturday’s profile will focus on Vanderbilt Commodores center Jalen Washington. He carved out an increased role at Vanderbilt after spending three seasons playing for the North Carolina Tar Heels.
Floor Spacing Potential
Washington showcased the ability to space the floor at Vanderbilt despite low volume. He confidently shot threes when left wide open, which is a key part of improving as a shooter.
The same applies to mid-range jumpers. His floor-spacing ability would make it difficult for teams to run zone defenses and make him a nice pick-and-pop threat.
Developed Into A Defensive Anchor
The 6-foot-10 center broke out as North Carolina’s defensive anchor in his third season. Washington possesses the lateral quickness and instincts to guard the pick-and-roll and then recover to protect the rim.
He averaged 0.8 blocks for the Tar Heels in the 2024-25 season, then jumped to 1.3 last season for the Commodores. His defensive versatility helps expand his coverage area and the defensive schemes Washington can execute.
Area of Concern
Washington’s shooting potential is promising, but he’s only converted 31.1% of his threes throughout his career. Defenses will target his weakness by packing the paint and living with a wide-open three from Washington.
While it is a concern, Washington can remedy this issue. He has the confidence and a solid jump-shooting base, which leaves the 6-foot-10 center to accumulate multiple reps in practice.
Draft Range
Washington hasn’t appeared in many mock drafts, but did complete a pre-draft workout with the Kings recently. He is most likely a priority undrafted free agent and is on Sacramento’s radar.
Are Kings a Fit?
The 22-year-old would fit in Sacramento. Washington has the skill set of a traditional center: sets hard screens, is a lob threat and has a post game.
His shooting potential expands his game. It would enable coach Doug Christie to throw out double big lineups without sacrificing floor spacing.
The Kings could sign Washington as a UDFA and develop his game in the G League. Skal Labissière is a good example.
Labissière spent two seasons playing for the Stockton Kings and used those reps to build his shooting arsenal. Although on a low volume, he converted 44.4% and 41.7% of his 1.5 and 1.9 attempts.
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