Sacramento Kings Keep Doug Christie After Injury Plagued Season

Merlin sees Sacramento sticking with Doug Christie as head coach for 2026-27 after a 22-59 season hampered by injuries. The front office cited the "positive development of rookie centers Maxime Raynaud and Dylan Cardwell and first-rounder Nique Clifford" and leaned on Christie’s earlier 27-24 finish. GM Scott Perry had said he had "complete confidence" in Christie. Merlin notes the true test is still ahead. Key pieces including Keegan Murray, De'Andre Hunter, Domantas Sabonis and Zach LaVine missed significant time, making evaluation difficult. With Russell Westbrook headed to free agency and the draft lottery looming, landing a top pick and a healthier 2026 roster will shape whether Sacramento triggers Christie’s richer third-year option.