NBA: Role Players who could become stars elsewhere

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NBA role players who could become stars elsewhere: 6. De’Aaron Fox

Some would make the argument that De’Aaron Fox, the former fifth overall pick, is already a star. He had a four-year upward trajectory that gave those who simply box-score watched the idea that he had already reached that level. But this season’s drop off combined with the current leadership’s drafting of point guards in consecutive seasons puts his future stardom in a precarious position.

Last season was the best of his career, averaging 25.2 points, 7.2 assists, 3.5 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game. He has not yet developed as a shooter from distance (outside of shooting 37.1 percent on 2.9 attempts per game in 2018-2019), but he is a vicious slasher when given the opportunity.

The Sacramento Kings have reached something of a crossroads. They have moved on from yet another coach, with Alvin Gentry being the third coach Fox has played under in five seasons. Rather than pairing him with complementary talents, the franchise has drafted point guards in back-to-back seasons, leading to the current trend down. Fox is one of the most talented young guards in the league. However, for the better part of a generation, being a talented young prospect is not enough to succeed with Sacramento Kings.