The Sacramento Kings have parted ways with three players, including former first-round pick Elfrid Payton. The team announced the cuts on Sunday, releasing Payton, Viktor Lakhin, and Tristen Newton. This roster trimming follows a difficult opening week where the Kings lost their first three games, most recently a 112-123 defeat to the Memphis Grizzlies on October 25.
The most notable name waived is Elfrid Payton. He signed an Exhibit 9 contract last month but his future with the organization was uncertain. The 32-year-old guard was the 10th overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft. He last played in the NBA during the 2024-25 season and spent all of last year with the Austin Spurs in the G League.
Payton's best years came with the Orlando Magic, where he started 281 games. He averaged 11.1 points, 6.4 assists, and 1.4 steals per game during his time in Orlando. His career includes stops with the Phoenix Suns, New Orleans Pelicans, New York Knicks, and Charlotte Hornets.
The other two players released, Viktor Lakhin and Tristen Newton, are eligible for a $91,000 bonus. They can earn it by spending at least 60 days with the Stockton Kings, Sacramento's G League affiliate.
After these moves, the Sacramento Kings have 17 players on their roster for the 2026-27 campaign. The team carries 14 players on standard NBA contracts and three on two-way deals. That leaves one open roster spot as the season begins.
The opening night lineup features a mix of established veterans and new faces. Guards include Darius Acuff Jr., Zach LaVine, and Malik Monk. The forward group is led by Keegan Murray and De'Andre Hunter, while Domantas Sabonis anchors the center position.
Ben Simmons is on a non-guaranteed deal. He will earn $1 million for making the opening night roster, and his contract becomes fully guaranteed on January 10, 2027. Leaky Black, Adam Flagler, and Jonathan Mogbo hold the two-way contracts.
The Kings are searching for their first win after a challenging start. Their season began with a 96-121 loss to the LA Clippers on the road on October 21. Two nights later, they fell 120-128 to the Portland Trail Blazers. The most recent result was a 112-123 home loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on October 25.
That 0-3 start puts early pressure on the team to find rhythm and defensive cohesion.
The team's immediate focus shifts to stopping the skid. Their next opportunity comes on October 27 with a road game against the San Antonio Spurs. Securing a win there is important for building momentum.
With one roster spot now available, the front office may look to add depth. The Kings' performance in these early games will likely influence any further personnel decisions. How the team integrates its key players will be vital for turning the season around.
