The Kings have missed the postseason for 12 consecutive seasons. They landed some solid prospects in last year’s draft and add another high-upside one this year in Luka Doncic.
Doncic has been dominating overseas. He helped lead Slovenia to the EuroBasket 2017 Gold Medal. During the 2017-18 season in the ACB, Euroleague and Spanish Cup, Doncic averaged 14.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 4.6 assists and 1.1 steals in 25.1 minutes per game. His 3-point shooting needs some work, as he made only 31.1 percent of his attempts. However, his 79 percent from the foul line gives hope that he can improve.
Doncic would thrive in today’s NBA with positionless basketball. At 6’7”, Doncic can play multiple positions but thrives most as a point guard. Despite being only 19-years old, he is ready to step into an NBA lineup and produce right away. While he didn’t play collegiately, he is as prepared as any prospect in this year’s class.
There are some concerns that Doncic could remain overseas, which complicate things for teams selecting this high in the lottery. However, with a player as skilled and talented as Doncic, he is well worth the wait even if he doesn’t come over for the 2018-19 season. People will point out that De’Aaron Fox was selected by the Kings last year, but Doncic’s versatility would allow him to play alongside anyone.