Section 101
All-Star
Evans' future in Sacramento uncertain
While it's not known whether the Kings (14-27) have fielded calls regarding Tyreke Evans, it's safe to say the third-year player's long-term future with the team is uncertain.
The 2009-10 Rookie of the Year is no longer considered the centerpiece of the Kings' new core, with that distinction clearly belonging to second-year center DeMarcus Cousins. Evans is eligible for an extension this summer but it's looking unlikely to be offered unless he shows major improvement.
His poor outside shooting remains an issue, and Evans' role changed drastically last month when he was moved from the point guard spot to small forward. Coach Keith Smart is using him as a point forward at times, a move that was inspired both by the poor play of veteran small forward John Salmons and the surprisingly good play of rookie point guard Isaiah Thomas. But the 6-foot-6 Evans is struggling with the adjustment, in large part because he isn't used to playing off the ball so frequently or not having a significant size advantage over his counterpart. The presence of guard Marcus Thornton has changed matters, too, as he is leading the team in shots per game at 15.5 (to Evans' 15.2 and Cousins' 14.2).
Evans, who has one season remaining on his rookie contract and could be a restricted free agent next summer, simply doesn't shine like he did in his debut. And if the Kings are convinced that Evans is likely gone after next season, they might be willing to move him for someone who can help expedite this slowest of rebuilding efforts.
Makes sense if they have no clue what is his value.