The Kings need a veteran leader in the back court and hope they've found one after agreeing to a one-year deal with Rajon Rondo on Friday.
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Rajon Rondo to sign one-year, $10 million deal with Kings, source told Yahoo
— Marc J. Spears (@SpearsNBAYahoo) July 3, 2015Update on the Rajon Rondo to Sac deal: being told its $9.5 million. They get their guy.
— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) July 3, 2015Rondo wore out his welcome in Dallas after the Mavericks traded for him last December. He's coming off the worst season of his career since his rookie year. A first-round pick out of Kentucky in 2006, Rondo was a four-time All-Star with the Celtics and helped Boston win the NBA title in 2008.
While Rondo is not a prolific scorer, he has been one of the league's best assist men. He was averaging 10.8 assists per game for the Celtics last season prior to the trade, but that number dipped to 6.5 assists in 46 games with the Mavericks.
Sacramento coach George Karl runs an up-tempo offense and Rondo's skill set should fit well into the system. Rondo is a solid passer who should be able to create more opportunities for All-Star center DeMarcus Cousins.
Rondo also brings the baggage of an abrasive personality, which might not mesh well with Karl or Cousins. A change of scenery could do Rondo well while also helping the rebuilding Kings return to the postseason for the first time since 2006.