Kings Rookie PG Acuff On the Wrong Side of NBA History Following Debut

The Sacramento Kings kicked off their 2026-2027 campaign on Wednesday night, falling 121-96 against the Los Angeles Clippers.

It was an overall struggle for Sacramento offensively, shooting just 42% from the field and 29% from distance.

But, rookie point guard Darius Acuff Jr. headlined the inefficiencies, shooting just 5-for-24 and missing all seven of his 3-point attempts.

Acuff was getting good looks, especially on the interior, but it just was not his day.

Following the game, the Real App noted that Acuff's 19 misses are the most by a rookie in their debut since the merger, with his 20.8% field goal percentage ranking the second-worst in a rookie debut (20+ shots attempted).

While this certainly was not the debut Acuff was picturing entering the game, it is promising to see the No. 7 overall pick creating separation and getting to the rim.

Acuff had multiple layups, short shots, and floaters that he failed to convert on - a rarity for a player with his offensive ability.

One positive sign was Acuff's engagement on the defensive end, which was something he and the team emphasized throughout the offseason.

Acuff held his own in the half court, while adding three steals, which led the team.

As the Kings enter a season where they will be very reliant on Acuff, this should be his worst game.

Ahead of the regular season kicking off, General Manager Scott Perry joined SacTown Sports' Radio to talk about rolling with the punches from his top pick.

Perry admitted that Acuff will have a lot on his shoulders as a rookie, but said that the franchise is willing to work with the "bumps and bruises."

This was not the first time Acuff has struggled with inefficiency since joining the Kings, as he had some sub-50% showings in the NBA Summer League and Preseason.

But, this is not uncommon for high-octane scoring guards like Acuff, with All-Star level talents like Trae Young and Darius Garland showing similar struggles early in their careers.

Heading into Sacramento's first home matchup of the season, expect Acuff to make the "bunnies" he failed to convert on in Game 1, and take advantage of his matchups.

The Portland Trail Blazers, who come to two on Friday night, have decided to start Ja Morant and Damian Lillard in their backcourt, going with the offensive upside over the defensive prowess of Jrue Holiday.

Acuff should be able to capitalize against either Lillard or Morant, and help Sacramento get back on a track with a win.