The Sacramento Kings, initially linked to Memphis Grizzlies All-Star point guard Ja Morant, are likely to pivot their focus to the upcoming 2026 NBA Draft. While Sacramento showed interest in acquiring Morant, the New Orleans Pelicans are now viewed as the more probable landing spot. This shift in priority for the Kings comes as they hold the seventh overall pick in a draft class rich with point guard talent, a position of clear need for the franchise.

Morant, who turns 27 in August, is currently under a substantial contract, with a $42.166 million cap hit for the 2026-27 season and $44.886 million for 2027-28. His past season was significantly curtailed, limiting him to just 20 games where he averaged 19.5 points and 8.1 assists, but shot 41 percent from the field. These injury concerns, coupled with past off-court issues, have undeniably impacted his trade value, making his hefty salary a significant consideration for potential suitors.

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The Kings' apparent cooling on Morant isn't a dismissal of his talent, but rather a calculated decision rooted in roster construction and long-term vision. The team desperately needs a foundational point guard to run their offense. With the seventh pick in the 2026 Draft, the Kings are in a prime position to address this need with a young, controllable asset.

The front office seems intent on rebuilding through the draft. Their heavy scouting of point guard prospects like Arkansas' Darius Acuff Jr., Houston's Kingston Flemings, and Louisville's Mikel Brown Jr. signals a clear strategy. Acuff, in particular, has been heavily linked to Sacramento, with many mock drafts projecting him to be available at No. 7 and a strong fit for their offensive needs.

Looking ahead, the Kings' decision will likely come down to draft night. If a top point guard prospect like Acuff or Flemings is available at the seventh pick, the need for a high-salary, injury-prone veteran like Morant diminishes significantly. The Grizzlies, meanwhile, are reportedly keen to shed Morant's substantial contract. If the Kings secure their point guard of the future in the draft, Memphis may find themselves with limited options for Morant, potentially leaving the Pelicans as the primary suitor.