By Jason Jones
jejones@sacbee.com
CHICAGO - The Kings wrapped up today's interviews by meeting with Arizona forward Derrick Williams, Purdure forward/center JaJuan Johnson, Georgia guard Travis Leslie and Texas guard Cory Joseph.
Williams (6-8, 241) is the second-best player in this year's draft according to most experts. Of all the players available, Williams would be the player who could most likely step in and start for the Kings.
Problem is Williams will likely be gone no later than the third pick in the draft and the Kings pick seventh.
That means the versatile offensive game and rebounding game Williams showed at Arizona isn't likely to make it's way to Sacramento.
I'm not sure what it would take for the Kings to be able to move up to make a deal for with Minnesota for the second-overall pick. The player the Kings have received plenty of inquires about they won't give up - DeMarcus Cousins. Plus it's not as if the Timberwolves are in dire need of bigs. Also can't see the Kings parting with Tyreke Evans, nor am I convinced Minnesota would even want Evans.
Kings basketball president Geoff Petrie has said adding another post player will have to be addressed at some point, so speaking Johnson makes sense.
Johnson (6-10, 221) would be a viable option in the second round. Assuming the Kings retain Samuel Dalembert, he along with Cousins and Jason Thompson will play most of the minutes at power forward and center. The Kings need depth if they choose not retain Darnell Jackson and because no one really knows what to expect from Hassan Whiteside.
Leslie, a junior, made some noise when he reportedly said he was better than Memphis guard Tony Allen because Allen is known just for his defense. Leslie denied making the statement. I wasn't there, but there is reportedly video of it.
Leslie (6-4, 205) is said to be a good athlete. What also jumps out about his game is that as a guard he averaged 7.2 rebounds last season. Any guard coming to the Kings will probably have to earn playing time doing the dirty work - rebounding and defense.
Joseph (6-3, 175) is another point guard that should be around for the Kings in the second round. A speedster that can score, Joseph would be the kind of player the Kings would likely sit behind Beno Udrih and allow Joseph to learn how to run a team.
The Kings would love another ballhandler, but if the team is to improve next season, depending on a youngster isn't the way to go.
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