George Karl evaluates talent, but says away from making final decisions at draft
A coach has to know his role. Sometimes, that's just as an X's and O's and locker room man. Others, it's as a talent evaluator.
In Sacramento, George Karl knows he has a say in evaluating incoming players, but he also knows it's ultimately his job to stay out of making the final decision on transactions. That's why he tends to keep his opinion outside of the Kings' war room, per Jason Jones of the Sacramento Bee:
You have to appreciate Karl knowing who the grand decision-makers are and should be, though considering the Kings' front-office history, the constant shakeup they're always undergoing and the pushy ownership up top, maybe Sacramento would be better off if Karl did, in fact, insist his opinion was the only valid one in the room.
(H/t to Jason Jones of the Sacramento Bee.)
Photo Credit: Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images
“I’m not an expert on the draft,” Karl said. “I like the (predraft) workouts because you can get a feel for a player and see in general what he can add to the team.”
The Kings worked out two top prospects Thursday at their practice facility. Center Willie Cauley-Stein is one of the most versatile defenders in the draft, while point guard Cameron Payne offers size at 6-foot-2 and playmaking, two things the Kings need.
Sacramento hasn’t had much success in the first round of the draft in recent years. After taking DeMarcus Cousins in 2010, the Kings chose Bismack Biyombo at No. 7 in 2011 and sent him to Charlotte on draft night in a three-team trade that netted rookie Jimmer Fredette and veteran John Salmons from Milwaukee. Sacramento selected Thomas Robinson at No. 5 in 2012. Both Fredette and Robinson are long-gone fringe players.
The Kings might not land a superstar this year, but they can’t afford to spend another high pick on someone who struggles to earn playing time. Karl believes Cauley-Stein or Payne would help the Kings next season.
