The Sacramento Kings signed veteran point guard Elfrid Payton to a training camp deal on Wednesday. This marks the second such move in just over a week, following their addition of Ben Simmons as the team looks to solidify its backcourt options.
Payton, 32, will compete for a roster spot in camp. The Kings are searching for a reliable backup behind rookie point guard Darius Acuff Jr.
Elfrid Payton was the 10th overall pick in the 2014 NBA Draft out of Louisiana. He brings nine seasons of NBA experience to Sacramento. His career averages are 9.8 points, 4.0 rebounds, 5.8 assists and 1.2 steals per game.
Payton has played for five teams: the Orlando Magic, Phoenix Suns, New Orleans Pelicans, New York Knicks and Charlotte Hornets. He last appeared in the league with the Pelicans during the 2024-25 season. His connection to Kings general manager Scott Perry is a factor. They worked together in Orlando and New York.
Sacramento is building competition and experience behind their rookie guard. Adding Payton creates another option at the point guard position. He is a known quantity for the front office, which can help in a competitive camp environment.
You can review the team's upcoming schedule on our schedule page.
Signing Payton follows the pattern set with Ben Simmons. Simmons, 30, agreed to a nonguaranteed one-year contract worth up to $3.5 million just eight days prior. Both veterans are on non-guaranteed deals, meaning they must earn their spots.
Training camp will be the proving ground for Payton and Simmons. The Kings' roster decisions will hinge on their performance and health. The primary goal is to find a steady hand to run the second unit.
The team's broader context includes looking to improve on last season's finish. Building reliable depth is a clear priority.
Payton's signing is a low-risk, potential-reward move. If he shows he can still contribute, he could provide valuable minutes. If not, the Kings can move on without financial penalty. The competition in camp just got more interesting.
