Precious Achiuwa has emerged as a significant player for the Sacramento Kings during a challenging season. Signed mid-November to a one-year contract worth $2.4 million, Achiuwa joined the team after seven games into the regular season. The Kings did not foresee the season’s setbacks, but Achiuwa capitalized on increased playing time due to injuries within the squad.
Achiuwa’s Performance This Season
Before arriving in Sacramento, Achiuwa averaged 7.6 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.0 assists over five previous NBA seasons after being drafted by Miami, later playing for Toronto and New York. This season, his performance has notably improved:
- Points per game: 9.6
- Rebounds per game: 6.5
- Assists per game: 1.3
- Shooting percentage: 53%
- Minutes per game: 23.4
His recent uptick in minutes and multiple games scoring over 20 points showcase his potential as a reliable role player.
Contract Implications for the Sacramento Kings
A pressing question now looms: Will the Kings be able to retain Achiuwa for the next season? If Sacramento does not exercise any team options or re-sign other expiring contracts, they could have about $11 million available. However, with the changes following the NBA’s 2023 Collective Bargaining Agreement, the Kings need to tread carefully to avoid exceeding the second apron.
Assuming they allocate $5-7 million for Achiuwa after accounting for a lottery pick contract and potential new signings, the Kings face a tough decision. Contract comparisons highlight the financial landscape; veteran Andre Drummond, with similar stats to Achiuwa, recently signed a two-year deal worth $10 million, proving that players like Achiuwa are fetching multi-year agreements.
Projected Market Value
Achiuwa’s improved performance suggests he might command a contract between $5 million to $14 million per year. Comparatively, Daniel Gafford’s role in the Dallas Mavericks has strengthened his case for a higher salary due to his impact in the 2024 NBA Finals.
The ongoing uncertainty regarding Achiuwa’s future reflects broader factors in NBA contract negotiations. While Achiuwa’s dedication to the Kings is evident, it remains unclear if he desires to stay in Sacramento, especially if offers from other teams arise.
Upcoming Games for the Kings
The Sacramento Kings have a tight schedule in the upcoming weeks, with several crucial games set to influence their playoff positioning:
- April 3rd vs. New Orleans Pelicans at 7:00 PM PT
- April 5th vs. Los Angeles Clippers at 6:00 PM PT
- April 7th at Golden State Warriors at 7:00 PM PT
- April 10th vs. Golden State Warriors at 7:00 PM PT
- April 12th at Portland Trail Blazers at 5:30 PM PT
In their most recent matchup against the Pelicans, Achiuwa scored 29 points and secured 12 rebounds, further demonstrating his value to the team.
As the season progresses, the Kings must decide if they can afford to keep Achiuwa on their roster amidst the financial challenges ahead.
