In case the Kings are thinking about moving Richaun Holmes before Thursday’s trade deadline, the impending free agent is making sure the organization knows where his loyalties lie, writes James Ham of NBC Sports. After posting 25 points, 11 rebounds and three blocks in Friday’s win at Boston, Holmes spoke of his fondness for the team.
“I can’t say enough how much I love this city, love these fans, love my teammates, love stepping out there in Sacramento in my jersey representing this city,” he said. “It’s been some of the best times of my life.”
Holmes seemed like an under-the-radar signing when he joined the Kings in 2019, but he quickly became Sacramento's starting center. He’s averaging career highs in points (14.0), rebounds (8.7) and assists (1.3) this season and is leading the NBA in field-goal percentage at 65.1%. He’s in line for a substantial raise this summer after making $ million this year.
“The preparation has met the opportunity and hopefully I can keep getting better and keep making big plays for this team,” Holmes said.
There’s more from the Pacific Division:
- Warriors center Kevon Looney has entered the NBA’s health and safety protocols and won’t play in Saturday night’s game, according to Connor Letourneau of The San Francisco Chronicle. Golden State isn’t sure how long Looney will be out of action, but players in the protocols usually have to sit out seven days, which would cause him to miss four games. With James Wiseman and Eric Paschall already in the protocols and Marquese Chriss out for the rest of the season with a broken leg, Golden State won’t have a true center in its lineup.
- The Lakers haven’t announced a decision yet on center Damian Jones, whose second 10-day contract expires on Saturday, tweets Jovan Buha of The Athletic. Players are limited to two 10-day deals with the same team in one season, so L.A. would have to sign Jones for the rest of the season to keep him on the roster. “No decision has been made on that,” coach Frank Vogel said, “but he’s played well and we’ll see where that goes.” Jones has started five of the seven games he has played for the Lakers and is averaging 5.6 points and 2.4 rebounds per night.
- Ben Golliver of The Washington Post explains why the Clippers may be the contender most in need a significant move by the trade deadline.
More must-reads: