So.....since it's not draft season, I've been struggling to come up with content. I recently had this idea for a series: Draft What-Ifs. Here's #1.
What if Luka got drafted by the Kings? This is what I think would have happened. Let's dive in.
2018-20: Rookie Year: Luka joins De’Aaron Fox in the backcourt, forming one of the most dynamic young duos in the league. Fox’s speed and Luka’s vision create a lethal transition offense. Under Dave Joerger, Luka thrives in a free-flowing system. The Kings push for a playoff spot in 2019, finishing 8th in the West. Without Bagley, the Kings likely target a rim-running big in free agency or trade — maybe someone like Clint Capela or Jonas Valanciunas. In the 2019 draft, guys like Matisse Thybulle or Brandon Clarke could fit as defensive-minded guys around Luka, and in 2020, they could nab a versatile scorer, like Saddiq Bey.
Long-Term Ripple Effects: Luka becomes the face of the franchise, bringing global attention to Sacramento. The Kings shed their “draft disaster” reputation. Sacramento builds around Luka with shooters and defenders. Think Buddy Hield staying longer, or a trade for a 3&D wing like Mikal Bridges. Luke Walton never gets hired. Instead, the Kings attract a more Luka-centric coach—maybe even someone like Mike D’Antoni or Igor Kokoskov.
2021-present: In 2021, Luka becomes an All-NBA player and the Kings become a solid, playoff-caliber team. In the draft, they could target a Jaden McDaniels-type wing defender. In '22, they reach the Eastern Conference Semis and pick up a Quentin Grimes or Bones Hyland to be a microwave scorer off the bench. With Luka’s rise to MVP contention, the Kings become perennial playoff contenders. They make a deep run in 2023, possibly reaching the Western Conference Finals. In the offseason, an Andrew Nembhard-caliber pick could solidify SacTown as a Finals contender. Dallas never gets Luka, which alters their entire trajectory. Maybe they keep Dennis Smith Jr. and build around him and Kristaps Porzingis. Instead of being remembered for passing on Luka, Divac is hailed as the GM who changed the Kings’ fortunes. The 2024 season could lead to another WCF appearance, and maybe they would grab a big in the draft or in free agency. This past year, they could reach the WCF yet again, and a high-upside post player would be a solid draft option. Instead of being remembered for passing on Luka, Vlade Divac is hailed as the GM who changed the Kings’ fortunes, and Sacramento is a Western Conference juggernaut.
LMK what you all think!