Sacramento’s financial outlook is expected to play a major role in shaping the franchise’s offseason strategy.
In his Kings offseason preview for Third Apron, Yossi Gozlan noted that the team’s projected payroll for the 2026-27 season could force the front office to make difficult decisions, including exploring trades involving higher-salaried veterans or potentially negotiating buyouts to reduce costs.
The Kings are currently projected to sit above the NBA’s first apron, a position that may not make sense for a team coming off one of the league’s poorest performances during the 2025-26 season.
As a result, Gozlan believes Sacramento could focus on lowering payroll rather than adding expensive veteran talent this summer.
At the same time, the organization remains focused on building for the future.
Holding the No. 7 overall pick in next week’s NBA Draft, the Kings are expected to target a potential long-term cornerstone who can become a key piece of the franchise moving forward.
Sacramento has already begun evaluating prospects in that range.
According to recent reports, the team hosted both Darius Acuff and Kingston Flemings for private workouts last week.
The two point guards are viewed as leading candidates for the Kings’ selection at No. 7 as the franchise looks to strengthen its young core and reshape its future.
Kings Notes: LaVine, Achiuwa, Offseason, More https://t.co/IofZyWiGHJ
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) June 18, 2026
