The Sacramento Kings are serious about trying to contend in the Western Conference, and they're not going to let $40.5 million over the next three seasons stand in their way. According to reports, the Kings are trying to work out a deal with the Detroit Pistons that would land them high-priced forward Josh Smith.
Smith was brought over to Detroit to join a frontcourt that already included Andre Drummond and Greg Monroe, and he failed to mesh. His numbers dipped to 16.4 points, 6.8 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game with a career-low 41.9 field goal percentage. He was often forced to play small forward for the Pistons, which likely contributed to his poor shooting, whereas in Sacramento he'd get more chances to play power forward alongside center DeMarcus Cousins.
According to reports, initial talks involved Sacramento shipping power forward Jason Thompson along with either small forward Derrick Williams or combo guard Jason Terry, but those chats stalled. Now, ESPN.com is reporting the two sides are looking for a third team that can help grease the wheels for them.
Smith trade an attempt to lure Rajon Rondo?
The Kings added a ton of salary during last season when they traded for Rudy Gay, who will be paid more than $19 million this season. He averaged 20 points and six rebounds a game last season in total, and 20.1 points and 5.5 rebounds with the Kings.
Smith at his natural position could help replace the scoring Sacramento lost when they let point guard Isaiah Thomas leave for Phoenix. Thomas scored 20.3 points a night last season and was part of the only trio in the league to all average over 20 points per game.
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