The Sacramento Kings are off to a disappointing start to the 2021-22 NBA season. The team has struggled out the gate to the tune of a 5-8 record which already has head coach Luke Walton in danger of losing his job. While no one expected the Kings to be contenders in the loaded Western Conference this year, the team has lost four consecutive games, an unfavorable run that could reportedly end up costing Walton his position with the team.
According to The Athletic's Shams Charania, Walton is on a short leash and if the Kings' poor run of form continues, it could be the end of his tenure with the franchise. After starting the season 5-4, the Kings have dropped contests to the Pacers, Suns, Spurs, and Thunder. A loss against Detroit on Monday could prove costly for the 41-year-old head coach, who is in his third season with the team.
The Kings finished the 2020-21 NBA season with a 31-41 record and looked to be heading in the right direction in terms of building a roster capable of ending their league-long 15-year playoff drought. Things have soured this season, however, and the Kings have not looked the part of a potential playoff contender.
Most notably, Marvin Bagley III is attempting to force his way out of the organization. The former No. 2 overall pick has featured in just one game this season and apparently refused to check in to the game when called upon by Walton just last week. Additionally, star point guard De'Aaron Fox has struggled immensely to start the year.
With the team not living up to expectations, it seems the Kings' patience with Walton is running thin. Across three seasons with the franchise, Walton has a 67-90 record with zero playoff appearances.
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