BREAKING: Kings Lands Star Guard in New ESPN Post-Lottery Mock Draft

The 2025 NBA Draft Lottery produced a stunning development when the Dallas Mavericks, against the odds, vaulted into the No. 1 overall pick position—a move that caught nearly everyone off guard. However, not every team walked away from the event with reason to celebrate. The Sacramento Kings, who entered the lottery holding the 13th pick, remained exactly where they were projected. Because their selection was protected only through the top 12, their first-round pick now officially transfers to the Atlanta Hawks, closing the door on any potential top-tier addition via the first round this year.

Although the Kings will be absent from the first-round conversation in this draft cycle, that doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll miss out on rookie talent altogether. Sacramento still holds the No. 42 overall pick, a second-rounder originally acquired from the Chicago Bulls. Despite being a later pick, there is still expected to be considerable talent available in the mid-to-late portion of the draft.

In a recently updated post-lottery mock draft released by ESPN analysts Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo, the Kings are projected to use that 42nd pick to select Chaz Lanier, a high-scoring guard out of the University of

Tennessee.

Who is Chaz Lanier?

Chaz Lanier, 23, is a veteran college player with five seasons of experience under his belt. He began his collegiate career at North Florida, where he spent four seasons honing his skills before transferring to Tennessee for his final year of eligibility. The move to the Southeastern Conference, considered by many to be the most competitive in college basketball, didn’t slow him down. Instead, Lanier flourished in his lone season as a Volunteer, averaging an impressive 18.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 0.9 steals per game. His shooting efficiency stood out as well, posting shooting splits of 43.1% from the field, 39.5% from three-point range, and 75.8% from the free-throw line.

Lanier is best known for his natural scoring ability and smooth shooting mechanics. His offensive prowess allowed him to thrive in one of the nation’s toughest conferences, and his consistent production turned heads. As a result, Lanier received national recognition, earning a Wooden All-American nod and winning the prestigious Jerry West Award, given annually to the best shooting guard in college basketball.

A Good Fit for Sacramento?

The Kings’ front office, now led by newly appointed general manager Scott Perry, enters this draft with a certain level of unpredictability. Perry’s draft philosophy and roster-building approach have yet to be fully revealed, leaving fans and analysts alike guessing how the Kings might use their lone pick.

Given the current structure of Sacramento’s roster, Lanier’s fit isn’t immediately clear. The team already has scoring in the backcourt, and what they need most is defense and positional versatility. While Lanier brings scoring punch and a professional-level shooting touch, his defense has raised some concerns. He measured at approximately 6-foot-4 and 206 pounds, with a notable 6-foot-9 wingspan, during the NBA Draft Combine. While his physical measurements are promising, his limited defensive impact in college could pose challenges as he transitions to the next level.

In selecting Lanier at No. 42, the Kings would be bypassing several other players who might fit more cleanly into their long-term needs. Notable prospects like Milos Uzan, Boogie Fland, Darrion Williams, and Kam Jones are all projected to be available in that same range and offer more natural positional fits, particularly in areas where Sacramento lacks depth. Still, Lanier’s offensive game might be too good to ignore if Sacramento is looking for a prospect who could contribute early and stretch the floor.

Bottom Line

Though the Kings won’t make a selection in the first round of the 2025 NBA Draft, they remain in position to add talent with their second-round pick. If they choose to go with Chaz Lanier, they’d be banking on his polished scoring and ability to make an immediate impact off the bench. While questions remain about his defense and overall fit, Lanier’s maturity, experience, and accolades make him a compelling option.

Sacramento will have to weigh upside against roster needs, but if Lanier’s offensive skill set translates well to the professional game, he could prove to be a valuable addition to a team looking to find the right pieces to climb back into the Western Conference playoff picture.