In a setback that has rippled through the Sacramento Kings organization, newly acquired guard Devin Carter, the No. 13 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, is set to undergo surgery on his left shoulder. Scheduled for later this month, the procedure will sideline the promising talent for the upcoming Summer League and may put his availability for the start of the next NBA season in question.
A Meteoric Rise
Devin Carter has been on an upward trajectory since his collegiate days. Starting his basketball journey at South Carolina, Carter transferred to Providence after a standout freshman season. It was at Providence where Carter truly made his mark, earning the Big East Player of the Year honors last season. He averaged an impressive 19.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, showcasing his all-around capabilities on the court. Notably, he shot an admirable 37.7% from beyond the arc, a testament to his scoring prowess.
A Family Legacy
Basketball excellence runs in Carter's lineage. His father, Anthony Carter, had a reputable 13-season career in the NBA, playing for six different teams. Anthony Carter's career is remembered not just for his on-court performances but also for an off-court incident that inadvertently shaped the Miami Heat's future. Due to an error by his agent, Anthony Carter became a free agent in the summer of 2003, which allowed the Heat to utilize the freed cap space to sign Lamar Odom. This strategic move later enabled the Heat to acquire Shaquille O’Neal from the Los Angeles Lakers in 2004, a pivotal factor in Miami's 2006 NBA championship victory.
The Road Ahead
Standing at 6-foot-3, Devin Carter is more known for his scoring abilities than his playmaking as a point guard. While the upcoming shoulder surgery is undoubtedly a setback, the prognosis remains optimistic. It's anticipated that Carter won’t miss a significant portion of his rookie season, which is a sigh of relief for the Kings and their fans. The Kings are likely to exercise caution, ensuring that Carter's recovery is thorough before he makes his NBA debut.
The Kings' investment in Carter reflects their belief in his potential to become a key player for the franchise. As he embarks on this recovery journey, the anticipation continues to build around how his collegiate success will translate to the professional level. Given Carter’s track record and the determination he’s shown in his career, there is a prevailing sense of optimism that he will rise above this challenge and continue to grow as a player.