In a significant blow to the Sacramento Kings, their recent first-round pick Devin Carter, the No. 13 overall selection in the 2024 NBA Draft, is set to undergo surgery on his left shoulder later this month. This development casts a shadow over his immediate future in the league, as it will prevent the talented guard from participating in the upcoming Summer League and raises concerns about his availability for the start of the next NBA season.
Devin Carter's journey to the NBA began at the collegiate level, where he initially played for South Carolina. After a standout freshman season, Carter transferred to Providence, where he had a breakthrough performance. Last season, he was named the Big East Player of the Year, a testament to his immense talent and hard work. During that season, he averaged an impressive 19.7 points, 8.7 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, while also shooting a commendable 37.7% from beyond the arc. These statistics offer a glimpse into the kind of player Carter is—a prolific scorer with the ability to impact various facets of the game.
Standing at 6-foot-3, Carter's height is complemented by his scoring prowess, which has been the hallmark of his game. While he is known more for his ability to put the ball in the basket than his playmaking skills as a point guard, his overall game has shown significant growth and versatility.
Basketball is undeniably in Devin Carter's bloodline. His father, Anthony Carter, had a reputable 13-season career in the NBA, suiting up for six different teams. However, Anthony Carter's career is also marked by an off-court incident that inadvertently benefited the Miami Heat. An error by his agent in 2003 led to Carter becoming a free agent, which freed up cap space for the Heat. This financial flexibility allowed the Heat to sign Lamar Odom, whose later trade to the Los Angeles Lakers for Shaquille O'Neal in 2004 played a crucial role in Miami's 2006 NBA championship run. Therefore, the Carter family has already left an indelible mark on NBA history, and Devin appears poised to continue that legacy.
Despite the setback with his shoulder injury, the prognosis remains optimistic for Devin Carter. His surgical team and medical advisors believe this procedure will not sideline him for a significant portion of his rookie season. For Sacramento, a franchise looking to build on its young and promising core, Carter’s development is crucial. The Kings historically have not been major players in free agency, so their draft picks often carry the weight of the team's future ambitions. Carter’s ability to get back to full strength and integrate into the team will be closely monitored.
The Kings' summer plans will now require adjustments. The Summer League, typically a crucial period for rookies and young players to acclimate to NBA-level competition, will proceed without Carter. This absence could delay his development and initial chemistry-building with teammates. However, with the right rehabilitation and training, Carter can still make a significant impact when he eventually steps onto the court.
The anticipation surrounding Devin Carter's debut is well-founded, given his college accolades and the high expectations that come with being a lottery pick. Kings fans and NBA enthusiasts alike will keenly follow his recovery and readiness for the upcoming season. As Carter embarks on this critical recovery period, the basketball world waits to see how quickly he can overcome this hurdle and showcase the skills that made him one of the top prospects in the 2024 NBA Draft.