Sacramento Kings rookie Devin Carter, selected as the No. 13 pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, will make his highly anticipated NBA debut tonight against the Memphis Grizzlies. The debut will be particularly special as his father, Anthony Carter, serves as an assistant coach for the Grizzlies.
Carter, 22, has faced a challenging start to his professional career, having undergone left shoulder surgery in July. After months of rehabilitation, he has been cleared to return to action. In preparation for his NBA debut, Carter played two games with the Kings’ NBA G League affiliate, the Stockton Kings.
During his college career at Providence, Carter had a standout season, earning Big East Player of the Year honors. He averaged 19.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists in his final year with the Friars, which helped propel him into the lottery of the 2024 draft. His impressive defensive skills and versatile offensive game made him a strong asset for Sacramento.
Father and Son on Opposite Sides
The significance of Carter's debut is amplified by the fact that his father, Anthony Carter, will be on the opposing sideline. Anthony Carter, a former NBA player who had a 13-season career with six teams, has been an assistant coach in the NBA since 2013, serving with the San Antonio Spurs, Sacramento Kings, and Miami Heat. Now, as a member of the Memphis Grizzlies coaching staff, he will be facing his son in an exciting father-son moment for the Carter family.
Fans on social media also called this move as LeBron James in Alternate Universe as LeBron James's son Bronny James made his debut in the same team along James -- Lakers.
Carter’s Impact on the Kings
Carter’s arrival is expected to make a big impact on the Kings. Known for his exceptional defensive ability, Carter’s 6-foot-2 frame and 6-foot-9 wingspan make him a versatile defender who can guard multiple positions effectively. His offensive game is equally impressive, and with his strong G League performances, he is poised to contribute immediately to Sacramento’s success.
In his two G League games, Carter demonstrated his all-around game, recording 50 points, 20 rebounds, 16 assists, 5 steals, and 5 blocks, while shooting 51.5% from the field and 50% from three-point range. These numbers show his readiness to play at the NBA level and should bring a much-needed boost to the Kings' lineup.
The Kings’ Recent Performance and Carter’s Role
The Kings have recently experienced some changes, including the firing of head coach Mike Brown mid-season. Under interim coach Doug Christie, the team has shown improvement, winning two straight games. Despite missing the 2024 NBA playoffs, the Kings were able to retain their lottery-protected first-round pick, which they used to select Carter.
While there were some concerns about adding another guard to a roster already stacked in that position, Carter’s skill set and potential make him a key piece in the Kings' long-term plans. His debut tonight will mark the beginning of what could be an exciting career in Sacramento, as he looks to contribute to the team’s success both on offense and defense.