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The Sacramento Kings are set to continue their 2026 preseason schedule with a matchup against the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco on Saturday. After dropping both of their first two exhibition contests against the Los Angeles Lakers in a home-and-away set, the Kings remain in search of their first win. However, with several key players potentially returning to the lineup, there is reason for optimism heading into the Bay Area clash.
Sacramento was significantly shorthanded in its initial pair of preseason games, which contributed to the 0-2 start. If the team can welcome back some of its missing pieces for Saturday's game, the contest could become a much more compelling watch. With that in mind, here are three players who warrant close attention from Kings fans and NBA observers alike.
Ben Simmons: The Comeback Story
All eyes will be on Ben Simmons if he takes the floor for Sacramento. The former three-time All-Star has not appeared in an NBA game in over a year, making his potential return a league-wide storyline. NBA insider Marc J. Spears reported that there is 'optimism' Simmons will suit up against the Warriors, though the Kings are wisely taking a cautious approach with the versatile point guard as he continues to ramp up after his extended absence.
Simmons has drawn praise throughout training camp, with hopes that he can recapture the form that made him an All-Star and All-Defensive standout with the Philadelphia 76ers. While expectations should remain tempered, his debut in a Sacramento uniform would be a significant step. Until he steps on the court, his true impact remains uncertain, but Saturday could provide the first glimpse.
De'Andre Hunter: Fighting for His Starting Spot
De'Andre Hunter is expected to open the season as the Kings' starting forward, but his preseason performance has raised questions. In two games, Hunter has averaged just 3.0 points and 2.0 rebounds in 15.8 minutes per contest, shooting a dismal 16.7% from the field and 0% from beyond the arc. The veteran has clearly struggled, though it is worth noting he missed the final two months of the 2025-26 season and may simply need time to shake off the rust.
Still, the pressure is mounting. With Precious Achiuwa and Ben Simmons both capable of challenging for minutes, Hunter needs a strong showing against the Warriors to solidify his role. While it is too early to overreact, his play has been concerning, and a bounce-back effort on Saturday would go a long way toward securing his starting job.
Emanuel Sharp: Rookie Ready to Break Out?
Second-round rookie Emanuel Sharp could become a key contributor for Sacramento this season, especially given the team's lack of proven three-point shooters. However, the 22-year-old still has much to prove. Through two preseason games, Sharp has averaged 9.0 points, 2.0 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.5 steals in 25.5 minutes per game, but his shooting splits—25% from the field and 23.5% from deep—leave room for improvement.
Growing pains are expected for any rookie, but the Kings need Sharp to step up and demonstrate he can earn rotation minutes. With his ability to shoot and defend at a high level, he has the potential to be a long-term difference-maker. A breakout performance against Golden State could be just what the Kings are waiting for, though his adjustment after a slow preseason start will be worth monitoring.
Originally reported by headtopics.