​After opening Summer League and the California Classic with a flawless four-game run, the Sacramento Kings are adding a familiar face to their mix: second-year big man Maxime Raynaud. The French center is set to rejoin the squad after suiting up for France in recent FIBA qualifiers, with the goal of keeping the team undefeated as they head to Las Vegas.
Raynaud did not play in France’s first FIBA game, but he made a strong return against Finland, leading his country with 16 points and flashing the athleticism that made him a notable prospect. In these qualifiers, the 7-foot-1 center appeared explosive, delivering multiple dunks and powerful finishes around the rim. His return to the Kings’ rotation adds another offensive option to a frontcourt already featuring standout young talent, including Darius Acuff Jr., who now has another weapon to deploy alongside him.
Drafted No. 42 overall two years ago, Raynaud brings a proven track record. In his rookie season he averaged 12.5 points and 7.5 rebounds while shooting an efficient 57.1 percent from the field, holding down a frontcourt role for Sacramento in the absence of Domantas Sabonis. After the All-Star Break this past season, Raynaud’s production surged. He earned Rookie of the Month honors by averaging over 17 points per game across 15 appearances. His efficiency remained high, as he joined a small group of names in NBA history by compiling 250 or more points and 125 or more rebounds on at least 59 percent shooting from the floor, per a Kings press release.
One memorable performance came in late March, when Raynaud dropped a career-high 32 points, added nine rebounds, and knocked down two three-pointers in a game against his countryman Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs. That night epitomized his blend of scoring ability and length, and it underscored why the Kings see him as a valuable piece for the present and the future.
In Las Vegas, Raynaud will complement a robust frontcourt that already includes Dylan Cardwell and Viktor Lahkin, both of whom impressed during the California Classic. Cardwell, in particular, stood out in the Kings’ final California matchup, producing 12 points, 12 rebounds, four steals, and four blocks. Although Cardwell has primarily been known for his defense and energy, there’s a concerted effort to make him more assertive on offense and to use his physical strength to crash the glass and generate easier scoring opportunities.
Postgame comments from Cardwell reflected the team’s growing confidence and determined mindset on their home floor. “We’re not going to let teams come in here and punk us anymore,” Cardwell said, signaling a collective resolve to elevate their play and impose their will on opponents.
The combination of Cardwell’s defensive versatility and rebounding prowess with Raynaud’s offensive firepower could give the Kings one of the most balanced frontcourts in the preseason. As Sacramento continues to add depth ahead of the regular season, the coaching staff will be looking to maximize these strengths and build a cohesive unit that can contribute across different lineups and situations.
Looking ahead, Sacramento and Raynaud are scheduled to face AJ Dybantsa and the Washington Wizards at 8:00 p.m. on Sunday night, a matchup that will provide another opportunity to evaluate the frontcourt options and determine how Raynaud’s return impacts the team’s overall dynamic in the rotation.
Fans are encouraged to stay engaged with ongoing coverage as Sacramento works to translate this early-season depth and momentum into sustained success. The preseason roster is taking shape, and Raynaud’s versatility could be a key asset as the Kings aim to continue their winning ways through the summer and into the regular season.