Darius Acuff Jr. is picking up for the Kings where Maxime Raynaud left off

The Sacramento Kings are in an oddly good spot with Darius Acuff Jr. on a similar trajectory to Maxime Raynaud.

By Ian Goodwillie · A Royal Pain

Published: Saturday, 7 November 2026 at 12:00 AM

Key Things to Know

Writer Ian Goodwillie highlights rookie Darius Acuff Jr. as a key breakout talent for the Sacramento Kings.
Acuff currently ranks third on the Kia Rookie Ladder and leads rookies in multiple statistical categories.
Goodwillie argues Sacramento must prioritize pairing Acuff with sophomore Maxime Raynaud once Raynaud recovers from a knee injury.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Ian Goodwillie argues that rookie Darius Acuff Jr. is emerging as a major positive for the Sacramento Kings, following the breakout trajectory of sophomore Maxime Raynaud. Acuff has entered the starting lineup and currently ranks third on the Kia Rookie Ladder, mirroring Raynaud's standout rookie campaign from the previous season.

Goodwillie emphasizes that establishing on-court chemistry between Acuff and Raynaud must become Sacramento's top priority once Raynaud returns from a knee injury. The writer believes connecting the two young standouts alongside recent draft additions will serve as the foundation for the franchise's ongoing rebuild.

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Darius Acuff Jr. is picking up for the Kings where Maxime Raynaud left off

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