While Charles Barkley’s golf swing may have been a subject for laughter in Lake Tahoe, his thoughts on the Sacramento Kings’ playoff hopes were less about humor and more like tough medicine for fans.
When asked what the Kings need to return to the playoffs, Barkley quipped, “A miracle, the hand of God, the Pope coming to town before the Kings get it right.” He wasn’t holding back, bringing some levity to the American Century Championship Celebrity Pro-Am, suggesting even Pope Leo could be a game-changer.
But there was more to his commentary.
He noted, “The Kings are in a bad place right now, which is unfortunate because they have one of the best fan bases in the world. I love the fans in Sacramento, but they need a miracle.”
It’s harsh, but honestly, it’s pretty easy to see why he feels that way.
Sacramento finds itself resetting yet again after lagging near the bottom of the Western Conference. They recently drafted Darius Acuff Jr. as the seventh overall pick. This young guard has shown flashes of talent in the California Classic, which resonates with Kings supporters.
Barkley has good things to say about Acuff, calling him “a good young player.” Still, he cautiously pointed out that while Acuff has potential, there’s a long road ahead for the team.
The challenge lies not just with Acuff, but with figuring out the direction of the franchise.
The absence of Ja Morant is felt heavily. There are also whispers about Zach LaVine potentially being bought out, and Domantas Sabonis’ role is uncertain. DeMar DeRozan is no longer in the picture, and notable figures from the previous playoff roster, including De’Aaron Fox and Harrison Barnes, have moved on.
It almost seems unreal that they made the playoffs just a season ago.
That year, the Kings achieved a solid 48 wins and pushed the Golden State Warriors to a seven-game series in the first round, led by then-coach Mike Brown—who later took the Knicks to their first championship in decades.
So, the path forward for Sacramento hinges on Acuff’s development into the foundational player they truly need. His summer league showing was promising, though his shooting wasn’t always stellar.
Still, Barkley’s point resonates: a single rookie can’t transform a team overnight.
Sacramento fans know this narrative too well. They’ve weathered numerous rebuilds and false starts, yet continue to be the loudest supporters in the league.
Barkley might have been joking, but there’s an undeniable truth in his words.
The Kings have some exciting young talent ahead. But it’s clear, there’s still a long journey before the playoff conversation can happen without a hint of humor—or a miracle.
