Kings Sign Achiuwa to Strengthen Struggling Roster

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Sacramento Kings signed free agent center Precious Achiuwa to a one-year veteran minimum deal on Tuesday, adding depth to their struggling roster.

This move comes as the Kings released second-year center Neemias Queta, opting for Achiuwa’s experience in hopes of enhancing their frontcourt presence.

Achiuwa, in his sixth NBA season, was originally drafted by the Miami Heat in 2020. He found significant success during his three-season tenure with the Toronto Raptors, where he averaged 8.9 points and 6.1 rebounds in 21.6 minutes over 153 games.

The 24-year-old joined the New York Knicks in a trade in December 2023, later re-signing with them in the summer of 2024. He proved to be a valuable bench player, participating in 17 playoff games and starting twice.

The Kings are currently facing challenges, sitting at 2-5 after a loss on Monday night. Their defensive rating of 118.3 points per 100 possessions ranks as the fourth worst in the NBA.

Additionally, fourth-year wing Keegan Murray, the team’s starting power forward, is sidelined with a torn UCL in his left thumb he sustained during preseason. Veteran player Trevor Ariza has stepped into Murray’s role, but Achiuwa is now a strong contender for a key bench position.