The Sacramento Kings are eyeing AJ Dybantsa as a potential addition to strengthen their roster for the future. With the ongoing 2026 NBA season, the Kings currently hold a record of 8-30, placing them among the teams vying for a top pick in the upcoming NBA Draft. Should they finish with one of the three worst records, the Kings will significantly boost their chances to select Dybantsa, a highly regarded freshman forward from BYU.
Evaluating AJ Dybantsa’s Potential
Dybantsa is emerging as one of the top prospects for the 2026 NBA Draft. His impressive performances at BYU have caught the attention of scouts and analysts alike. Over 15 games, Dybantsa has averaged:
- 23.1 points
- 7.2 rebounds
- 3.9 assists
- 1.5 steals
His shooting splits stand at 58% from the field, 35% from three-point range, and 75% from the free-throw line. At 6 feet 8 inches and weighing 195 pounds, Dybantsa has drawn comparisons to NBA stars like Tracy McGrady and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.
Draft Lottery Odds for the Kings
As the Kings look ahead to the draft lottery in May, their strategy hinges on maintaining one of the league’s worst records. Currently, the Kings are tied with the New Orleans Pelicans, with only 1.5 games separating them from the Indiana Pacers for the NBA’s worst record.
If they secure a bottom-three finish, the Kings will have:
- 52.1% chance of landing a top-four pick
- 14.0% chance of winning the draft lottery
The odds slightly decrease for the fourth-worst record, which has a 48% chance for a top-four pick.
Future Prospects for the Kings
Integrating Dybantsa into the Kings’ roster could address significant weaknesses that have plagued the team for years. His versatility and athleticism would complement current players like Keegan Murray, shifting the team’s dynamics. According to analyst Matt George, if given the chance, the Kings would likely select Dybantsa as a cornerstone for Sacramento’s future.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Dybantsa’s development and the Kings’ draft strategies. Will he become the new face of the franchise? Only time will tell, but the Kings’ front office is poised to monitor his journey closely.
