Scott Perry suggests internal versatility could solve Sacramento’s backup backcourt void, though a potential reunion with veteran leader Russell Westbrook remains a high-stakes free agency wildcard.
The Sacramento Kings have done a good job filling out the roster this offseason, acquiring length and 3-point shooting on the wings, and continuing to develop young talents.
No. 7 overall pick Darius Acuff Jr. is Sacramento's lead guard of the future, but his backup is still in question.
At General Manager Scott Perry's press conference this past week, he gave some insight into the position, saying that all options are on the table.
"We'll be open to any any opportunity to help us gets us better. Whether that is someone that's not currently on the roster or maybe we feel that we have enough on our roster that we can kind of fill that gap or that void in terms of being a backup point guard," Perry said. "So, uh that's a very important position and we'll make sure that we give it the proper attention that we need to."
While there aren't many traditional point guards on the roster currently, head coach Doug Christie definitely has players capable of handling the ball.
Perry mentioned that Nique Clifford or Malik Monk could be given the opportunity.
"I think Malik Monk has played it in the past. We've seen him do it a little bit," Perry said. "You know, Nique Clifford, we auditioned him a little bit toward the end of the year. You know, in today's game, you need multiple ball handlers on the floor who can just initiate offense. They may not all be "pure point guards", and I think Darius is showing you quickly that he's going to be able to be that."
Both Monk and Clifford are capable of handling the ball, but would benefit from being able to attack closeouts off a kickout.
While Acuff certainly looks able to take over primary playmaking responsibilities, someone who has experience as a offensive initiator could be of benefit.
Enter veteran point guard Russell Westbrook, who remains a free agent.
Perry and Westbrook have both not ruled out the possibility of reuniting, but Perry recognized that the team may not have the salary cap space to afford anything above a veteran's minimum, which he "outplayed."
Westbrook was a great fill-in for Sacramento last season after being thrust into the starting role, averaging 15.2 points, 5.4 rebounds and 6.7 assists and serving as a locker rook leader for Sacramento's rookies.
Throughout the season, both Clifford and Maxime Raynaud praised the former NBA MVP for his guidance and helping them to learn the professional lifestyle.
While it may be difficult to lure Westbrook into another cheap, minimum-type deal, bringing him back would certainly be a benefit to Acuff and the Kings' backcourt depth.
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