Sacramento Kings: Which in-house free agents should the team re-sign?

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DALLAS, TEXAS – MARCH 26: Kosta Koufos #41 of the Sacramento Kings dunks the against Dirk Nowitzki #41 of the Dallas Mavericks in the first half at American Airlines Center on March 26, 2019 in Dallas, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Tom Pennington/Getty Images) /

3. Kosta Koufos

On a team void of defensive-minded, rim-protecting big men, Kosta Koufos was intended to serve just that role. And for the past few seasons, he’s done just that.

After signing a four-year, $32 million deal with the Kings back in 2015, Koufos would play three seasons as a reliable veteran presence playing primarily with the second unit. But this past season, Koufos saw his role diminished as his play deteriorated.

He averaged a measly 12 minutes per game in just 42 regular season contests — both his lowest totals since the 2010-11 season. Koufos saw drops in nearly every statistical category and significantly hampered the Kings offense every time he stepped on to the court.

light. Related Story. Sacramento Kings: Initial grade and analysis of the 2019 NBA Draft class

Unfortunately, Koufos’ offensive game took a big step back in 2018-19 — not that it wasn’t already a weakness, to begin with. Ultimately, there really isn’t room for an aging big man with a sub-50% shooting rate and declining defensive skills.

While he still remains an above-average presence on the boards and an excellent team leader, Koufos’ best days seem to be behind him. His best bet would be to catch on with another team in need of a veteran rebounder with the hope that his shooting percentage rises above this season’s number.

But don’t expect to see him back in a Kings jersey next season.

Verdict: It’s time to move on (Part 2)

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