After missing out in the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery, the Sacramento Kings were forced to send their first-round pick to the Atlanta Hawks. Now holding only the 42nd overall pick in the second round, there’s growing speculation that the Kings are exploring ways to climb back into the first round.
“Another intriguing rumble emanating from the California capital: Sacramento has searched for trade avenues to acquire a first-round pick, sources say, and has expressed confidence to various agents that it could be selecting as high as the early 20s,” NBA insider Jake Fischer reported via The Stein Line.
While it’s unlikely the Kings would trade up without a specific target in mind, the team continues to host workouts that hint at their interest in second-round picks or undrafted talent.
Among the prospects invited for Monday’s pre-draft workouts is Alabama’s Mark Sears—a standout point guard who led the Crimson Tide and earned All-American honors twice during his collegiate career.
Standing at just 5-foot-11, Sears defied expectations with his stellar play in the 2023–24 season, averaging 21.5 points, 4.2 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.6 steals per game while shooting an elite 50.8% from the field, 43.6% from three, and 85.7% from the line.
Though undersized for the NBA, Sears has consistently played beyond his frame. He’s drawn frequent comparisons to Jalen Brunson of the New York Knicks for his efficient, tough-minded style of play.
With Sacramento urgently needing help at the point guard position this offseason, Sears may not be their long-term answer—but he’s a name worth watching. If undrafted, the Kings could consider bringing him aboard as a Summer League standout and development project. While he may not be a hot commodity on draft night, Sears has the skill set to turn heads once given the opportunity.
