NBA: 5 under-the-radar rookies that can earn a regular rotation spot
By Max Holm
5. Frank Mason III – Sacramento Kings
With the additions of De’Aaron Fox through the draft and George Hill in free agency, there aren’t a ton of point guard minutes remaining in Sacramento. The Kings also seem committed to trying to turn Buddy Hield into a rotation guard, so that’s even more minutes to the backcourt. However, it seems unlikely that the Kings would draft Fox just to bring him off the bench all season.
What will likely happen at some point is a Hill-Fox backcourt, allowing one to run the team while the other rests. But if Sacramento’s wings don’t impress, Hill may be wanted more at the 2. Either way, through consistent effort, leadership and defensive impact, Frank Mason III can make his mark.
As an older rookie, he’s more ready to play and comes with a chip on his shoulder. The Kings will probably have a developmental season meaning Mason is capable of locking down the role of third point guard.