Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Marcus Thornton did not have a good NBA season for the Sacramento Kings, who should seriously think of trading him.
Whomever is in charge of running the Kings after the decision is made on the franchise’s location will have to look seriously at Thornton and figure out why his numbers declined so dramatically for the Kings this season. Obviously, his health has to be taken into consideration.
But Thornton still should have had better numbers. A change of scenery, after spending 2 ½ years in Sacramento, may be what Thornton needs. He may get it if the Kings moved to Seattle. But he also might need a shot with a new franchise who can use Thornton’s talents on both ends of the court
Thornton still has plenty of offer Sacramento if they want to keep him.
He had his best NBA season a year ago in 52 games with the Kings. He averaged 34.9 points, 18.7 points, 3.7 rebounds and 1.90 assists a game. He came to the Kings from the New Orleans Hornets and that move seemed to boost his efforts greatly.
This season, Thornton appeared in 72 games bit only saw eight starters and averaged 24 minutes per game, plus 12.7 points. 2.5 rebounds and 1.3 assists. He shot 43.8 percent from the floor last year and 42.9 percent this year. His free-throw shooting percentage at 88.1 percent is still solid.
If the Kings can’t get much value back for Thornton they might as well keep him. But if the price is right, he should go on the market.
