The Sacramento Kings made a roster move on Tuesday that many people might have missed. The Kings G League affiliate, Stockton Kings, acquired the rights to F Stanley Johnson from the Sioux Falls Skyforce, the Miami Heat G League affiliate, per Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
While many fans likely look right past a G League trade, Johnson is a sure-fire talent. The former 8th overall pick is a nine-year NBA veteran and could be the exact type of player Sacramento has been looking for. All Kings fans have wanted Toronto Raptors F OG Anunoby, but they might have just gotten a version of him for much cheaper.
Johnson, 27, recently spent time with the San Antonio Spurs last season, averaging 5.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in just 15.6 minutes per game. While he was not shooting the ball at a high rate, Johnson was efficient with 53.3/45.0 splits.
Despite this being a G League trade, the Kings have an open roster spot, and Johnson could be the guy to fill it. Sacramento has been searching for an effective lockdown wing defender, and Johnson could be the answer.
While his offensive skillset lacks in some areas, Sacramento can sacrifice scoring to have a defender capable of going out and guarding the opposing team's best player. Sophomore F Keegan Murray has risen to the occasion as a lockdown defender many times this season, but the Kings could use the help on the perimeter.
Johnson will likely not have the impact in Sacramento that fans are hoping for, but the talent is there for the 27-year-old to make a difference. Johnson can prove himself in the G League before getting called to Sacramento for in-game tests, but his opportunity should come.
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