King’s No. 7 pick Acuff makes early statement

Sacramento Kings rookie Darius Acuff, Jr. is making an early impression in the NBA preseason, averaging 18.7 points and 4.3 assists through his first three exhibition games as he works toward a bigger role in the team’s backcourt. The seventh overall pick in the 2026 NBA Draft out of the University of Arkansas has provided an immediate offensive spark, combining scoring ability and playmaking as he adjusts to the professional game. Acuff’s breakout performance came against the Golden State Warriors, where he erupted for 25 points, eight assists and four rebounds, shooting 8-of-15 from the field and knocking down four of his six three-point attempts. Sacramento ultimately fell, 111-106, but the rookie’s production stood out. He previously scored 19 points against the Los Angeles Lakers in his preseason debut before adding 12 in their second meeting, bringing his three-game averages to 18.7 points, 4.3 assists and two rebounds per contest. Acuff is a 6-foot-2 guard who starred for Arkansas during the 2025-26 college season, averaging 23.5 points and 6.4 assists per game before declaring for the NBA Draft. His strong preseason has also placed him in the conversation for Sacramento’s starting point guard role. Early depth-chart projections list Acuff as the projected starter, with veteran guards Malik Monk and Ben Simmons among the players who could share ball-handling responsibilities depending on the lineup. Monk offers scoring and secondary playmaking, while Simmons brings size and versatility as a ball-handler. Adam Flagler also provides additional guard depth as Acuff competes for minutes in a backcourt featuring established NBA players and fellow newcomers. While preseason production does not guarantee regular-season success, Acuff’s ability to create shots, knock down perimeter attempts and facilitate the offense has given the Kings reason for optimism about their seventh overall selection. With the regular season approaching, the Arkansas product will look to build on his encouraging start and turn his early scoring burst into a consistent contribution for Sacramento. (Jesus Nathaniel Valdez)