Randolph, Hill sign with the Kings; how it could impact Boston



The Sacramento Kings have been making moves today, first finalizing a deal for George Hill and now it’s been confirmed that Zach Randolph is heading to a team that seemed intent on rebuilding. Hill agreed a three year/ $57 million contract earlier today, while Randolph came to terms on a two year/ $24 million deal. Both veterans join a vastly inexperienced team compared to their counterparts in the Western Conference but it seems as if Sacramento are hell-bent on making their first playoff appearance since 2006.

For the Boston Celtics, this could be bad thing. The Kings looked to be in tanking mode, drafting three players in the first round of the 2017 NBA Draft only a couple of weeks ago, but with tons of cap space have decided to make a splash in free agency. Had they decided against such moves, Boston would be best pleased, considering they may own the Kings’ 2019 first round draft pick.



Though the signing of Hill takes the former San Antonio Spurs point guard away from the Los Angeles Lakers, thus boosting the chances the Celtics receive their 2018 first round pick should it fall between second and fifth, committing that much money to him makes little sense for Sacramento. They drafted De’Aaron Fox in the lottery this year, and Hill coming on board will only take minutes away from the rookie.

But that’s Vivek Ranadive and Vlade Divac's problem. For now, Boston are only worried about the Kings and how their future looks. There’s still a good chance they fall in the lottery over the next couple of years, taking into account how strong the Western Conference is right now. There are at least ten, if not twelve, teams much better than them and for the Celtics, that’s a very good thing. They’ll be hoping it lasts up until 2019.

Credit to Nelson Chenault/ USA Today Sports for the photo
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