2024 NBA Mock Draft: Spurs prioritize two-way talents, Magic land surprise steal
By Reese Kunz
Pick No. 13: Sacramento Kings select Ja’Kobe Walter
The Sacramento Kings recently brought back Malik Monk on a four-year, $78 million deal. Regardless, they could use more backcourt depth, especially with Kevin Huerter reportedly being made available for trade, according to Yahoo! Sports' Jake Fischer. Baylor guard Ja’Kobe Walter would fit perfectly with the Kings’ offensive system, providing De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis with more floor spacing to operate.
Additionally, the Kings like to push the tempo and get out in transition to get Fox in the open court and optimize his strengths. Adding another elite spot-up shooter in the mix with Walter would also help in this aspect. Walter averaged 14.5 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.4 assists, and 1.1 steals per game on 38/34/79 shooting splits at Baylor.
To become more than a role player in the NBA, he needs to improve his shooting efficiency and playmaking ability. However, the Kings would compensate for those weaknesses, with Fox and Sabonis doing most of the offensive generation. At least early in his career, Walter would likely be relied on to be a 3-and-D player.
The Kings could trade this pick for a more established veteran to help them return to the playoffs. But if they stay put, Walter’s 3-and-D upside could be something they are interested in to add more backcourt depth. With his solid positional frame, shooting ability, and defensive instincts, Walter projects to be a tremendous two-way complementary piece at the next level. If he reaches his upside, he could even be the Kings' future starting shooting guard.