In what can only be described as a major setback for the Sacramento Kings, Devin Carter, their latest acquisition and the No. 13 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, will be undergoing surgery on his left shoulder later this month. This unfortunate development means the promising guard will miss the upcoming Summer League and could potentially be sidelined at the start of the next NBA season.
This injury halts the momentum Carter had been building over his collegiate career, which began at South Carolina. After an eye-catching freshman season, Carter transferred to Providence, where his skills truly flourished. Last season proved to be a breakout year for him, as he was named Big East Player of the Year—a testament to his significant improvement and relentless work ethic.
Remarkable Stats from a Stellar College Career
Carter's college statistics speak volumes about his impact on the court. Averaging an impressive 19.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, he proved to be a versatile and valuable asset to his team. Notably, he shot a commendable 37.7% from beyond the arc, showcasing his range and scoring ability. These numbers undoubtedly made him an attractive pick for the Kings, who are in the midst of building a competitive roster.
The 6-foot-3 guard is known more for his scoring prowess than his playmaking skills, adding a dynamic scoring option for Sacramento. His ability to consistently put up points and contribute across various facets of the game makes him a notable addition to any team.
Bagful of Potential Despite the Setback
Despite the unfortunate timing of his injury, the prognosis appears optimistic. While Carter will miss the Summer League, he is not expected to miss a significant portion of his rookie season. This is a silver lining for both Carter and the Kings, as he will have the opportunity to integrate into the team and make his mark once he recovers.
A Legacy of Basketball Excellence
Basketball talent runs in Devin Carter’s veins. His father, Anthony Carter, had a commendable 13-season career in the NBA, playing with six different teams. However, Anthony's journey wasn’t without its own twists. An error by his agent led to Anthony becoming a free agent in the summer of 2003—an unexpected development that had a ripple effect on NBA roster management.
This unplanned free agency freed up cap space for the Miami Heat, who signed Lamar Odom as a result. Odom's inclusion enabled the Miami Heat to later trade him to the Los Angeles Lakers to secure Shaquille O’Neal in 2004. O’Neal’s presence was instrumental in the Heat’s path to winning the NBA championship in 2006. This series of events highlights the nuanced and often unpredictable nature of professional basketball careers.
The young Carter certainly understands the intricacies and demands of the professional world, having witnessed his father's career. With an established basketball lineage and a clear knack for the game, Devin Carter has both a history to live up to and a promising future ahead of him.
For the Sacramento Kings, Carter’s potential to fill a crucial role in their lineup cannot be overstated. The setback of his shoulder injury might delay the start, but his anticipated recovery and return to form will be eagerly awaited by fans and the franchise alike.