In a significant blow to the Sacramento Kings, their recent first-round draft pick, Devin Carter, is scheduled to undergo surgery on his left shoulder later this month. The No. 13 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, Carter will be sidelined, missing the critical Summer League and potentially the start of his rookie NBA season. This development casts a shadow over what looked to be a promising beginning for the talented guard.
Carter's Journey: From College Stardom to the NBA
Carter's path to the NBA has been marked by growth and achievement. He began his collegiate basketball career at South Carolina, where he had an impressive freshman season. However, it was at Providence where he truly came into his own. Following his transfer, Carter quickly established himself as one of the top players in the conference.
Last season, his outstanding performance earned him the Big East Player of the Year award. He demonstrated his scoring prowess by averaging 19.7 points per game, coupled with notable versatility, contributing 8.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.8 steals per game. His shooting also stood out, with a commendable 37.7% success rate from beyond the arc. These achievements bolstered his draft stock, ultimately leading to his selection by the Kings.
A Family Legacy of Basketball
Devin Carter's aptitude for basketball seems to be hereditary. His father, Anthony Carter, had a respectable 13-season career in the NBA, playing for six different teams. The elder Carter's career is marred by a notable incident involving his agent, which ultimately benefited the Miami Heat. In the summer of 2003, a clerical error by Anthony Carter's agent resulted in the player becoming a free agent. The freed-up cap space allowed the Heat to sign Lamar Odom, a move that eventually enabled Miami to acquire Shaquille O'Neal in a trade with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2004. O'Neal's addition was pivotal, leading to the Heat's 2006 NBA championship victory.
This family history is a testament to the rich basketball lineage from which Devin Carter hails. At 6-foot-3, Carter is known more for his scoring abilities than his playmaking skills. His offensive acumen was a major draw for the Kings, who envisioned him as a key piece in their future backcourt.
Looking Ahead: Optimism Amid Uncertainty
While the news of Carter's surgery is undoubtedly a setback, there is a silver lining. The prognosis is optimistic, indicating that he may not miss a significant portion of his rookie season. The Kings and their fans will be hoping for a swift and complete recovery, allowing Carter to showcase the talent that made him a standout in college basketball and a top pick in the draft.
In the interim, the Kings will need to adjust their Summer League plans, potentially giving other young prospects an opportunity to shine. The team will be eager to see Carter healthy and ready to contribute, hoping that his time off will not stunt the momentum he carried over from his college career.
This upcoming season, the Kings, their fans, and the basketball world will be watching closely. The stage is set for Devin Carter to follow in his father's footsteps, making his mark in the NBA and continuing the Carter family's legacy within professional basketball.