In a significant blow to the Sacramento Kings, their newest addition, Devin Carter, the No. 13 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, is set to undergo surgery on his left shoulder later this month. The procedure is expected to sideline the promising guard from the upcoming Summer League and may even hamper his availability at the start of the next NBA season.
Carter's collegiate career showcases a journey of growth and transformation. He began at South Carolina, where he first made his mark as a freshman. However, it was after his transfer to Providence that he truly came into his own, culminating in an extraordinary season that saw him named Big East Player of the Year. Averaging 19.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, Carter demonstrated his all-around talent. His shooting prowess was evident with a commendable 37.7% from beyond the arc.
Standing at 6-foot-3, Carter is renowned for his scoring ability, a trait that often overshadows his playmaking responsibilities as a point guard. This blend of skills made him a standout choice for the Kings, who were optimistic about his potential impact on the team.
The roots of basketball run deep in Carter’s family. His father, Anthony Carter, had a distinguished 13-season career in the NBA, suiting up for six different teams. Yet, Anthony's career is as much remembered for an off-court incident as it is for his on-court accomplishments. An error by his agent in 2003 led to Anthony inadvertently becoming a free agent. This mistake provided the Miami Heat with unexpected salary cap space, which they utilized to sign Lamar Odom. The acquisition of Odom proved crucial, as it allowed the Heat to later trade him to the Los Angeles Lakers for Shaquille O’Neal in 2004. O'Neal's presence was pivotal in leading the Heat to their first NBA championship in 2006.
For Devin Carter, this pedigree and lineage bring not just expectations but also a narrative of resilience and opportunity. The surgery, while untimely, has a positive prognosis. It appears Carter will not miss a significant portion of his rookie season, a relief to Kings fans eager to see their new talent in action.
As the Kings' organization and supporters hold their breath, hoping for a swift recovery, Carter's journey mirrors the ups and downs of many athletes who have faced early career setbacks but emerged stronger. His story, marked by familial legacy and personal perseverance, continues to unfold, promising a future that Kings fans hope will be filled with many triumphant moments on the court.
In the weeks to come, all eyes will be on Carter’s recovery timeline and how the Kings will navigate the initial phase of the season without their prized new acquisition. While the anticipation builds, there is a collective hope within the organization that Devin Carter will soon don the Kings' jersey and showcase the talent that made him the No. 13 pick in the draft, living up to the legacy he inherits from his father.