Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) is an NBA writer for SheridanHoops.com and the Associated Press. We recently sat down with him to break down Syracuse’s first round draft pick, Malachi Richardson. Here’s what he had to say:
The Juice Online: How has Malachi Richardson done in the NBA Summer League?
Mike Scotto: Malachi Richardson struggled shooting the ball from the field (.361) in Summer League. With Sacramento bringing in Arron Afflalo as a free agent acquisition, Richardson’s path to finding playing time will be determined by his ability to space the floor.
» Related: Post NBA Draft analysis: Syracuse guard Malachi Richardson to Sacramento Kings
TJO: What kind of role do you see Richardson playing on the Sacramento Kings this season?
MS: I expect Richardson to come off the bench sparingly behind Aaron Afflalo and McLemore, who may be traded, to start the season. It wouldn’t surprise me to see him in the D-League to keep his confidence up and develop while Sacramento figures out what to do with McLemore.
TJO: How will the Kings do in the 2016-17 season?
MS: Sacramento lost starting point guard Rajon Rondo, which is a major blow. point guard is the premier position in the league and the Kings only have Darren Collison as a viable option at this time. As of now, with Rudy Gay trade rumblings also ongoing, this team is not a playoff contender and could fall back several spots in the standings.
We will ask Scotto about his thoughts on Syracuse’s second round pick, Michael Gbinije, next week.
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