5. Sacramento Kings- 22-44 (2011-12)
For the fifth straight season, the Kings will finish in the cellar of the Pacific Division and likely the entire Western Conference. It’s not that the Kings don’t have young, exciting players – DeMarcus Cousins is a double-double machine, coming off a 2011-12 campaign in which he averaged 18 points and 11 rebounds.
Sophomore point guard Isaiah Thomas and the sharpshooting Marcus Thornton have the capability of filling up the box score as well. Unfortunately, none of the team’s players have the maturity or ability at the moment to be a strong leader. Young talent is one thing. But without no direction or organization so to speak, it’s all for naught.
The Kings don’t have much leadership on the sidelines, either. Coach Keith Smart heads into this season with only one full season of coaching experience under his belt.
Jimmer Fredette is looking to bounce back after a disappointing rookie season (averages of seven points and two assists). If he has another sluggish campaign, the former college standout will likely start hearing whispers of being a bust.
Key Players: DeMarcus Cousins and Tyreke Evans