As the Sacramento Kings are on another down year, there have been numerous players who have been struggling on their squad. Tyrese Haliburton and Harrison Barnes have been impressive but players like De'Aaron Fox and Buddy Hield have been subpar. One other notable asset who was phenomenal last season to their success was Richaun Holmes.
Holmes was a lackluster bench player for the Philadelphia 76ers and Phoenix Suns in the earlier part of his career, but he has found his rejuvenated self in Sacramento. His efficiency, rebounding and swats have been tremendous over his Kings stint but injuries, COVID protocols and rotational adjustments are just some of the reasons on his down year. As his value is lower and the Kings have expressed their interest to listen offers for Holmes, there are a few franchises that must pounce on this opportunity.
Richaun Holmes Trade Destinations
When there is a big available on the market, the Charlotte Hornets must also inquire on these individuals that is one glaring hole on their lineup. Their guards and wings are impeccable already, but the four and five positions could still be bolstered for them to compete with the powerhouses in the Eastern Conference. Richaun Holmes would complement well alongside the core of LaMelo Ball and Miles Bridges.
James Borrego's offensive schemes would be a perfect destination for Holmes as he would likely reach his ceiling and showcase his true wares. Even with Holmes receiving a slew of lobs and pick and roll conversions, it is his leaping ability and rim protection that will prove to be more vital. Adding Holmes to aid Mason Plumlee gives them more options in containing the likes of Giannis Antetokounmpo, Joel Embiid, and Kevin Durant.
With Kristaps Porzingis continually maximizing his talent from outside the paint, it is ideal for head coach Jason Kidd to pair him with a big that excels as a roller and a boatload of energy to crash the boards. Holmes fits that realm because Luka Doncic and Holmes could run several pick and rolls every game, which could wreak havoc for defenses. Additionally, shooters would be lurking in the corner to create space for Doncic as well.
Holmes would be an upgrade from Dwight Powell as the secondary big alongside Porzingis. Maxi Kleber and Dorian Finney-Smith are terrific shooters from the wing positions who would complement Holmes as well. Moreover, Kidd's priorities are focused on the defensive side of the court which would form a tremendous partnership with Richaun Holmes.
The New York Knicks are in dire need to upgrade their front court rotation of Mitchell Robinson, Nerlens Noel and Taj Gibson. Holmes is a massive boost to Julius Randle on both ends of the court if the Knicks could manufacture a deal before the trade deadline. The three aforementioned centers have been underwhelming and inconsistent this season which is also one of the reasons for their disappointing 2021-22 campaign.
The value of the Knicks players might not be as enticing for Sacramento, but Leon Rose could be willing to part with Obi Toppin or even Noel to acquire Holmes. Head coach Tom Thibodeau relishes for players that work hard on every possession and hustles constantly for the 50/50 balls. Holmes would be incredible in the culture and environment he intends to build in Madison Square Garden. Kemba Walker is another one struggling for New York, but his dish-offs could open up through the incredible positioning and relentlessness of Richaun Holmes.
There is no doubt that the Kings will have a busy and exhausting time before the trade deadline, but Holmes is a tremendous asset who possess commendable basketball brilliance. It is ironic for Sacramento to shop him after signing him to a long term extension in the offseason, but if they are adamant in giving him up for future assets, then teams must be persistent. Even if his contract is for four years, it is not much of a headache since it is less than $15 million a year.
Richaun Holmes has a unique style of play and Sacramento should not waste it on just nobody once again.
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