Why aren’t the Sacramento Kings playing their 1st round picks?

The Sacramento Kings are facing questions over limited playing time for recent first-round draft picks Nique Clifford and Alex Karaban. Discussing the situation on The Matt George Podcast, host Matt George and Jason from The Royal Report examined why both players have struggled to secure consistent minutes in the rotation despite Sacramento investing draft capital to acquire them in back-to-back drafts.

Clifford, drafted 24th overall in 2025, has appeared only in short bursts, while Karaban, acquired as the 29th pick, played just 38 minutes across four games. While analysts noted Clifford looked hesitant and struggled on the floor, George argued that brief three-to-four-minute appearances make it difficult for young players to find consistency.