After working out Victor Oladipo last week, the Kings are continuing to give veteran guards looks as they seek to fill their last roster spot and give Darius Acuff Jr. a mentor.
With one roster spot left on the Sacramento Kings' team this upcoming season, the front office seems to be shifting focus towards bringing in a veteran guard.
I have reported on the Kings' interest in two-time NBA All-Star Victor Oladipo, who is seeking a return to the league and has already worked out with Sacramento.
But, on Thursday, the Kings are hosting two more-traditional point guards, showing interest in Cam Payne and Elfrid Payton, according to Kings Insider Jake Fischer.
With 20 years of NBA service between the two players, either would bring a level of leadership and experience to a team that needs a veteran presence in the backcourt.
Last season, Russell Westbrook served in this role, and was heavily praised by younger members of the team for showing them how to be a professional.
But, with his recent retirement decision, the Kings now must pivot.
Payne would be the more-likely signing, having played last season with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Appearing in just 21 games, Payne averaged 7.4 points, 2.6 assists, and 1.1 steals per game, filling in as a bench spark plug when needed.
Although he has never been the featured player within a team's offensive scheme, Payne has found ways to remain effective, knocking down 3-pointers and setting up his teammates for good looks.
Payne's best seasons as a pro came during his time with the Phoenix Suns (2019-2023), where he posted three campaigns averaging double-digits, and shot the long ball at a 41.5% clip.
Payton, on the other hand, would bring a different element of playmaking to the team, as he has averaged nearly six assists per game over his lengthy NBA career.
The former lottery pick did not play in the NBA last season, but has shown the ability to be effective when he has gotten opportunities.
In the 2024-2025 season, Payton was acquired by the New Orleans Pelicans towards the end of the year, where he recorded 10 or more assists in seven of his 11 appearances with the team.
Since entering the league, Payton's playmaking prowess was never a question, as he excels in setting up his teammates and taking care of the ball.
But, his 3-point shooting and scoring as a whole withheld him from reaching his full potential as a player.
Nevertheless, his basketball IQ and vision would be beneficial for No. 7 overall pick Darius Acuff Jr. to witness and learn from as he enters a rookie year filled with high expectations.
Whether it is Oladipo, Payne, or Payton, each player brings a bit of a different playstyle and background to the table.
Oladipo remains my top choice, but Payton's and Payne's more-traditional point guard play style could make sense as well.
