With only $33 million in guaranteed salaries next season, Sacramento should have enough cap space to sign at least one major free agent from the most star-studded class in league history, which includes LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, and Amar'e Stoudemire. The only problem is that the Kings haven't signed a player of that caliber since... well, ever.
That's not to say that Sacramento hasn't made any impactful signings in recent years.
Veterans Keon Clark (one year, $5 million) and Jim Jackson (veteran's minimum) were key components on a banged-up 2002-03 team that came within a game of reaching the Western Conference Finals for the second straight season.
Scot Pollard and Jon Barry, journeyman role players signed to minimal contracts in 1999, were key reserves during the team's late '90's renaissance.
Anthony Peeler (one year, $2.25 million) led the league in three-point field goal percentage in 2003-04, and much to the delight of Kings fans everywhere, elbowed the trash-talking Kevin Garnett in the face during the playoffs. That same year, Tony Massenberg (minimum) served as a solid backup center playing on his then-NBA record 11th team.
Beno Udrih was a steal at the prorated veteran's minimum in 2007-08, even if the subsequent $32-million extension is still up for debate.
Greg Ostertag was, um, never mind.
But when was the last time Sacramento signed a true, marquee non-incumbent free agent? Certainly, no open market acquisition in franchise history is comparable to MVPs Shaquille O'Neal defecting from Orlando to the Los Angeles or Steve Nash leaving Dallas for more money from the Phoenix Suns.
Before we break down the players who could be donning purple and black in 2010-11 — there's already speculation that Geoff Petrie will once opt to sign lower-cost players rather than splurge on a big name — let's take a look back at the Kings' five richest free agent signees, a list that includes a one-time All-Star, a Sixth Man of the Year winner, and a couple of colossally overpaid disappointments.
Vlade Divac - signed on January 22, 1999 for six years, $62.5 million
Divac's impact in Sacramento can never be overstated, as the versatile Serbian center played an essential role in revitalizing the Kings into a championship contender almost overnight. Yet, the circumstances (and not to mention, the economy) surrounding the uncharacteristic signing make it more understandable for both parties.
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