Brett Davis – USA TODAY Sports
Ben McLemore entered the league with a lot of promise, a player with the potential to be a star down the road. He had a good offensive game, with great athleticism in the open court and an impressive outside shot. He has the size to play the shooting guard position in the league, a position that is not as deep as it has been in the past. McLemore has been solid in his first two years, but he needs to continue to improve his game to help the Sacramento Kings become playoff contenders in the Western Conference.
The Kings’ offense revolves a lot around DeMarcus Cousins and Rudy Gay, making it difficult at times for McLemore to get his touches. With the addition of Coach George Karl, McLemore should see more touches and fit in better with the offensive philosophy. Karl’s last team was not afraid to run and push the ball early and often in transition. This type of offense could suit McLemore as he is a good finisher in transition and not many players can challenge him at the rim. It can also give him more opportunities on the perimeter to hit open shots.
The Kings have a couple of very talented players, but they will need someone like McLemore to step up and help take the team to the next level. McLemore’s game should better complement Cousins and Gay, as his ability to shoot can help space the floor for them. However, he still needs to develop a more all-around game on offense, as well as increasing his defensive intensity on a nightly basis. In a tough Western Conference, the Kings will need him to improve over the offseason.
