In a significant setback for the Sacramento Kings, their recent acquisition Devin Carter, the No. 13 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, is set to undergo surgery on his left shoulder later this month. The procedure will sideline the promising guard for the upcoming Summer League, and there are concerns it might impact his availability at the start of the next NBA season.
Carter’s journey to the NBA has been one marked by resilience and development. His collegiate basketball career began at South Carolina, where he showcased his potential. However, it was at Providence that he truly became a standout player. Following a stellar freshman season, Carter transferred to Providence and flourished, culminating in a remarkable season last year where he was honored as the Big East Player of the Year.
The stats he accumulated during that period testify to his impressive performance: Carter averaged 19.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.8 steals per game. His shooting from beyond the arc was commendable, with a 37.7% success rate. These figures not only highlight his scoring ability but also his all-around game, making him a valuable pick for the Kings.
Devin Carter’s athletic prowess can be traced back to his lineage. His father, Anthony Carter, had a notable 13-season career in the NBA, playing with six different teams. Anthony's career, however, wasn't without its twists. In 2003, an error by his agent led to Anthony unexpectedly becoming a free agent. This mishap had broader implications than initially anticipated. The cap space created by Carter's unplanned free agency allowed the Miami Heat to sign Lamar Odom. Odom's acquisition facilitated a trade to the Los Angeles Lakers, through which the Heat managed to bring in Shaquille O’Neal in 2004. O’Neal's addition played a pivotal role in leading Miami to the NBA championship in 2006.
Standing at 6-foot-3, Devin Carter is known for his scoring prowess more than his playmaking abilities as a point guard. His knack for putting the ball in the basket has always been his defining trait, and the Kings were undoubtedly looking forward to infusing this talent into their roster. However, the upcoming surgery introduces an element of uncertainty. While the prognosis remains optimistic, and early indications suggest Carter will not miss a significant portion of his rookie season, the Kings will need to tread carefully.
The timing of this setback is undoubtedly unfortunate. For rookies, participation in the Summer League is a crucial step in acclimating to the pace and physicality of the NBA. It offers an invaluable opportunity to develop chemistry with teammates and adapt to professional-level play. Missing out on this preparation phase means Carter will have to find other ways to get up to speed and might place additional pressure on him and the coaching staff to ensure he’s ready when he finally steps onto the court.
Sacramento’s investment in Devin Carter reflects their belief in his potential to become a key player for their squad. While the surgery introduces a hurdle, it also presents an opportunity for Carter to demonstrate his resilience and commitment to making an impact at the highest level of the sport. His journey, influenced by his father's storied career and his own impressive collegiate achievements, suggests a player with both the talent and mentality to overcome adversity.
For now, the Sacramento Kings and their fans will be hoping for a swift and smooth recovery for their young star. The road to rehabilitation might be challenging, but given Carter's track record of thriving under pressure and exceeding expectations, there is reason to remain hopeful. The journey of Devin Carter in the NBA is just beginning, and while it starts with an unfortunate setback, the promise of his talent offers a bright horizon ahead.