Kevin Huerter's time with the Kings has run its course

Kevin Huerter joined the Sacramento Kings in 2022. He was an essential part of the franchise's growth under Mike Brown. However, Huerter's role has slowly diminished over the past 12 months. He's gone from a guaranteed starter to a deep bench role. His production has also steadily decreased since moving to Northern California.

Huerter is currently averaging 9.2 points, 2.8 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game. However, he shoots just 31.5% from three-point range. Considering his limited defense, his struggles on the perimeter have drastically hindered his chances of playing time. 

According to Jon Hollinger of The Athletic, Huerter is the most likely player on the Kings' roster to be traded if they decide to look for upgrades.

"Trading for players such as Brooklyn’s Cam Johnson, for instance, who make in the $20 million range, would all but require having Huerter in the deal as matching salary," Hollinger wrote. "Most deals for a significant player, in fact, would need to include him not just for matching purposes but also to keep the Kings below the luxury tax; they’re just $3.2 million over and have never been eager to pay it."

Huerter has one more year left on his four-year $65 million deal. He will earn $17.9 million next season. Considering his limited production, and the Kings' depth at his position, the front office would be wise to explore potential trade packages. Huerter clearly needs a fresh start, where he can establish a role for himself and rediscover the production he provided during the 2022-23 season. 

Sacramento is going through a transition period. Firing Brown was a hasty decision, but the franchise can't afford to look back. Instead, it must figure out how to keep improving the current rotation. That likely means finding a way to flip Huerter for a player who fills an area of need. 

The Kings are still good enough to make the playoffs this year if they can continue improving on their recent run of wins. Unfortunately for Huerter, he will either be in a new situation or buried on the bench. His time in Sacramento is winding down, and now it's just a matter of time before he's shipped out.