The Sacramento Kings do not intend to part ways yet with Harrison Barnes.
According to James Ham of ESPN 302, the Kings are not exploring any trade scenario surrounding Barnes, as they are focusing on building chemistry off to a great start.
There were trade speculations earlier this week that Barnes has been gaining interest from several suitors, more notably with the Phoenix Suns. Given that he has an expiring deal this season, the veteran can’t evade the chatter that involves his name.
As of Sunday, the Kings are holding a 9-6 card and are enjoying a new era under the leadership of head coach Mike Brown. The club has been blending well and trying to mesh up its components in hopes to make the 2022-23 season a fruitful one.
Barnes, 30, is currently in his fourth full season for the Kings, averaging 11.6 points, 5.5 boards, 2.1 dimes. Though throughout 14 games, he is shooting a career-worst 25.5 percent from three in 3.4 attempts.
With Sacramento vying to put an end to the longest postseason drought in league history, Barnes plays a significant role due to his versatility and 3-and-D tendencies. It now only boils down if he can raise up his level of performance to truly convince the franchise to not shop in the marketplace or even extend him.
For now, the season is still too early and it is yet to be determined if the Kings are fully determined to stick with him around.
