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Jaden Ivey and the Sacramento Kings are playing cat and mouse. With the 2022 NBA Draft just days away on June 23rd, the Kings are finalizing their options with the fourth pick. Ivey is projected to land in Sacramento. However, mixed reports from Ivey's camp may throw a wrench in the Kings' plans.
Despite original reports that the Purdue guard isn't interested in playing for Sacramento, Ivey himself provided comment on the situation.
“If I got drafted there, it wouldn't be the worst option,” Ivey told Scott Agness.
If actions speak louder than words, the Kings still can't be sure about Ivey's interest. The prospect added that he had not been in contact with Sacramento. He also told Agness he had not worked out for the Kings. Only the Orlando Magic (1st pick) and the Detroit Pistons (5th pick) have gotten a pre-draft look at Ivey.
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This doesn't mean disaster is afoot for Sacramento. Buzz surrounds the Kings about a win-now mentality. Rumors have circulated about the fourth pick being traded. Sacramento could use Ivey's dissatisfaction as the catalyst for a trade.
Additionally, the Kings could simply force the issue with Ivey. The talented, athletic guard averaged 17.3 points on 46% shooting in his sophomore season at Purdue. He's an aggressive scorer who has a good feel for offense. He could make an immediate impact paired alongside Domantas Sabonis.
Otherwise, options like Keegan Murray and other high-upside prospects could be a reasonable choice at four. Maybe the Kings get lucky, and a top-three pick falls in their lap. Regardless, Sacramento must make finding a consensus on Ivey a priority.
