3 Sleeper Picks Kings Could Target in the Second Round

As the Sacramento Kings continue building toward sustained contention, the second round of the NBA Draft has quietly become an area where the franchise has found real value. In recent years, Sacramento has shown a strong ability to identify overlooked talent and develop those players into meaningful contributors, turning late picks into rotational pieces.

That success gives the front office the confidence to target high-upside prospects again who may not carry first-round hype but possess intriguing tools. With roster depth still a priority, especially on the defensive end and in the backcourt, the Kings could look toward several under-the-radar college standouts.

Among them are Meleek Thomas, Christian Anderson, and Zuby Ejiofor, three players whose production and skill sets suggest they could outperform their draft position. Each brings a different dimension that could complement Sacramento’s current core.

G Meleek Thomas, Arkansas

Thomas, the Arkansas guard, has steadily built a reputation as a reliable scorer and playmaker throughout his college career. Averaging around 15 points per game during the 2026 season, he has shown the ability to create his own shot while also facilitating for teammates in a balanced offensive system.

His quickness and ability to break down defenders could give the Kings another dynamic option in the backcourt, especially off the bench. Sacramento has often leaned heavily on its primary guards, so adding a player like Thomas could help stabilize second-unit scoring.

While he may need to improve consistency from deep, his attacking style and confidence make him an intriguing developmental piece who could thrive in the Kings’ up-tempo system.

G Christian Anderson, Texas Tech

Texas Tech's Christian Anderson reacts to hitting a 3-pointer against Cincinnati during a Big 12 Conference men's basketball game, Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026, in United Supermarkets Arena. | Nathan Giese/Avalanche-Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Anderson, out of Texas Tech, offers a slightly different profile as a scoring guard with strong offensive instincts. He has been one of the more productive players in college basketball, putting up nearly 19 points per game and consistently stepping up in big moments. While he is expected to be off the board in the late first round, he would be a must-draft if he slips to the Kings in round two.

Anderson's ability to score at all three levels makes him a valuable offensive weapon, particularly for a Kings team that can occasionally struggle with shot creation beyond its stars. His experience in a competitive program has also prepared him for high-pressure situations, something that translates well to the NBA.

While his size and defense may raise concerns, his scoring punch could outweigh those limitations in a bench role if he develops properly.

F Zuby Ejiofor, St. John's

Mar 20, 2026; San Diego, CA, USA; St. John's Red Storm forward Zuby Ejiofor (24) looks on in the first half against the Northern Iowa Panthers during a first round game of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Viejas Arena. | Denis Poroy-Imagn Images

Ejiofor stands out as a high-energy big man with a well-rounded game after an impressive career at St. John’s. He developed into one of the most impactful players in the Big East, averaging 16.0 points, 7.1 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and 2.0 blocks per game while leading his team across multiple statistical categories.

His accolades, including conference Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year, highlight just how dominant he became on both ends of the floor. Ejiofor’s defensive presence and versatility would immediately address one of Sacramento’s key needs in the paint.

He brings rim protection, rebounding, and a motor that fits well alongside the Kings’ current frontcourt rotation, while also offering enough offensive skill to avoid being a one-dimensional player.

Ultimately, the Kings’ recent track record suggests they are well-positioned to capitalize on overlooked talent once again. Players like Thomas, Anderson, and Ejiofor may not dominate headlines, but each has shown enough at the college level to warrant serious consideration.

Whether it’s backcourt scoring, offensive versatility, or defensive presence, these prospects each fill specific gaps on Sacramento’s roster. If the Kings continue their trend of strong second-round development, one or more of these names could emerge as a key contributor in the near future. Finding value late in the draft is often what separates good teams from great ones, and Sacramento has a chance to do exactly that.