Sources have informed ESPN that free agent sharpshooter Doug McDermott has reached an agreement with the Sacramento Kings.
Entering his 11th NBA season, McDermott brings his skills to the Kings, a contender in the Western Conference, enhancing their roster with his experience as a scorer and reliable teammate.
The Kings gained the opportunity to bring McDermott on board following Monday’s trade of forward Jalen McDaniels, who moved to the San Antonio Spurs, as per sources.
Throughout his 10-year career in the NBA, the 32-year-old McDermott has maintained a 41% shooting percentage from beyond the arc, averaging 8.9 points per game.
Last season, the 6-foot-6 McDermott played for both the San Antonio Spurs and Indiana Pacers, recording an average of 5.5 points over the course of 64 games.
Doug McDermott Signs with Sacramento Kings as Veteran Sharpshooter Ahead of 11th NBA Season
Overview of Doug McDermott’s Career
Doug McDermott, a name synonymous with sharpshooting in the NBA, has recently signed with the Sacramento Kings as he embarks on his 11th NBA season. Known for his exceptional scoring ability, McDermott brings a wealth of experience and offensive firepower to the Kings. With a collegiate career that saw him become one of the highest scorers in NCAA history, his transition to the NBA has been marked by consistent development and an impressive shooting percentage.
McDermott’s Impact on the Court
McDermott’s signing is a strategic move for the Sacramento Kings, bolstering their offensive lineup. Here are some key aspects of his game that will significantly benefit the team:
- Three-Point Shooting: McDermott has consistently ranked among the league leaders in three-point shooting percentage. His ability to stretch the floor will create additional space for teammates.
- Versatility: He can play both shooting guard and small forward positions, allowing for matchup advantages against various teams.
- Experience: With over a decade in the league, his leadership and veteran presence can help guide younger players on the roster.
Statistical Highlights from McDermott’s Career
To understand the value McDermott brings to the Kings, let’s take a look at his career statistics:
| Season | Team | Games Played | Points Per Game | Three-Point Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014-15 | Chicago Bulls | 31 | 3.0 | 28.6% |
| 2020-21 | Indiana Pacers | 58 | 13.6 | 38.9% |
| 2021-22 | San Antonio Spurs | 66 | 10.3 | 42.9% |
| 2022-23 | San Antonio Spurs | 74 | 9.8 | 41.0% |
What the Kings Gain from McDermott’s Signing
The addition of Doug McDermott is a game-changer for the Sacramento Kings. Here are some practical benefits:
1. Enhanced Offense
The Kings have made a concerted effort to improve their offensive efficiency. McDermott’s scoring ability will complement star players like De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis, creating a more dynamic offense.
2. Spacing the Floor
With the rise of perimeter shooting in the NBA, McDermott’s proficiency from beyond the arc allows for greater spacing on the court. This is crucial for driving lanes and facilitating ball movement.
3. Experience in Crucial Moments
As the Kings aim to make a deeper playoff run, having a player with McDermott’s experience can be invaluable. He has faced pressure situations and can provide crucial insights during tight games.
How McDermott Fits into the Kings’ System
Doug McDermott’s skill set aligns well with the Kings’ playing style, which emphasizes fast-paced offense and ball movement. Here’s how he fits into the system:
- Pick-and-Roll Situations: His ability to shoot off screens will be essential in pick-and-roll scenarios, allowing the Kings to exploit defensive mismatches.
- Catch and Shoot: McDermott excels in catch-and-shoot situations, making him a reliable option when off-ball movement creates open shots.
- Defensive Matchups: While not primarily known for his defense, McDermott’s size and experience can be utilized in strategic matchups against opposing wings.
Case Studies: McDermott’s Previous Teams
To understand the potential impact of McDermott on the Kings, let’s analyze his contributions to previous teams:
1. Chicago Bulls (2014-2017)
In his early years with the Bulls, McDermott showcased his scoring ability, averaging 10.2 points per game in his second season. His time in Chicago laid the foundation for his shooting prowess.
2. Indiana Pacers (2017-2020)
While with the Pacers, McDermott evolved into a reliable offensive threat, particularly during the 2020 season, where he averaged 13.6 points per game. His performance helped the Pacers secure a playoff spot.
3. San Antonio Spurs (2020-2023)
In San Antonio, McDermott solidified his status as a sharpshooter, regularly hitting over 40% from three-point range. His contributions were critical in tight games, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
First-Hand Experience: What Teammates Say
Many of McDermott’s former teammates have praised his work ethic and shooting skills. Here are some highlights from their comments:
- **DeMarcus Cousins, former teammate at the Bulls:** “Doug has that killer instinct. When he gets hot, it’s hard to stop him. The Kings will definitely benefit from having him.”
– **Lance Stephenson, former teammate at the Pacers:** “He’s a great guy to have on your team. You can always trust him to knock down that open shot.”
Practical Tips for Kings Fans
As the Kings welcome Doug McDermott, fans can take these steps to maximize their experience:
- Follow the Games: Keep track of the Kings’ schedule and don’t miss a game to see McDermott in action.
- Engage on Social Media: Follow the Kings’ social media pages for player highlights, updates, and fan interactions.
- Attend Games: Get tickets and witness McDermott’s sharpshooting live, contributing to a vibrant home court atmosphere.
Conclusion
Doug McDermott’s signing with the Sacramento Kings is a significant move as he looks to bring his sharpshooting prowess into his 11th NBA season. With his history of success and an ability to impact the game on multiple levels, McDermott is poised to be a key contributor to the Kings’ ambitions this season. Fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how his presence transforms the team as they aim for a successful season in their quest for playoff contention.
