Sacramento Kings: The Best Player In Each Season Of The 21st Century

The Sacramento Kings have had their fair share of ups and downs since the turn of the century, from the exciting early 2000s playoff runs to the challenging rebuilding years. Throughout it all, there’s always been that one player who stood out as the heart and soul of the team each season. Whether it was the dominance of Chris Webber in the early 2000s, the steady leadership of Mike Bibby, or the recent rise of De'Aaron Fox , the Kings have seen plenty of talent come through their ranks. Let’s take a look back at the best player for each season of the 21st century, highlighting the stars who have left their mark on Sacramento basketball.

2000-01 Season - Chris Webber

Stats: 27.1 PPG, 11.1 RPG, 4.2 APG, 1.3 SPG, 1.7 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA First Team

The 2000-01 season was a defining moment for Chris Webber and the Sacramento Kings. Webber was at the peak of his powers, leading the Kings with a dominant mix of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking. His 27.1 points per game were a career-high, and his ability to control the game from the power forward position made him one of the most feared players in the league. Webber’s versatility was a perfect fit for the Kings’ high-octane offense, which became one of the most entertaining in the NBA.

Under Webber’s leadership, the Kings finished with a 55-27 record, securing the third seed in the Western Conference. His efforts earned him a spot on the All-NBA First Team, solidifying his place among the league’s elite. The Kings advanced to the second round of the playoffs before falling to the Los Angeles Lakers, but Webber’s impact on the team was undeniable. His performance this season laid the foundation for the Kings' run as one of the top teams in the NBA in the early 2000s.

2001-02 Season - Chris Webber

Stats: 24.5 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 4.8 APG, 1.7 SPG, 1.4 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

Chris Webber continued to be the driving force behind the Sacramento Kings during the 2001-02 season. Although his scoring dipped slightly to 24.5 points per game, Webber’s all-around game remained as impactful as ever. He averaged over 10 rebounds and nearly 5 assists per game, showcasing his ability to do it all on the court. Webber’s leadership was instrumental in guiding the Kings to a 61-21 record, the best in the NBA that year.

The highlight of the season was the Kings’ deep playoff run, where they reached the Western Conference Finals. In a series that has become legendary, the Kings pushed the Los Angeles Lakers to seven games, falling just short of a trip to the NBA Finals. Despite the heartbreaking loss, Webber’s performance throughout the season and playoffs solidified his status as one of the top players in the league, and he was named to the All-NBA Second Team for his efforts.

2002-03 Season - Chris Webber

Stats: 23.0 PPG, 10.5 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.6 SPG, 1.3 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

In the 2002-03 season, Chris Webber continued to lead the Kings as one of the most versatile big men in the game. Averaging 23.0 points, 10.5 rebounds, and a career-high 5.4 assists per game, Webber was the centerpiece of Sacramento’s offense. His ability to score, rebound, and facilitate made him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and he played a key role in the Kings’ 59-23 regular-season record.

However, the season took a devastating turn in the playoffs when Webber suffered a knee injury that not only ended his season but also dashed the Kings’ championship hopes. Despite the injury, Webber’s contributions throughout the season were significant enough to earn him another All-NBA Second Team selection. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways continued to make him one of the most valuable players in the league, even as the Kings' window for a title began to close.

2003-04 Season - Peja Stojakovic

Stats: 24.2 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 2.1 APG, 1.3 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

With Chris Webber sidelined for much of the 2003-04 season due to injury, Peja Stojakovic stepped up as the Sacramento Kings' primary offensive weapon. Stojakovic had a career year, leading the team in scoring with 24.2 points per game while also contributing 6.3 rebounds per game. His sharpshooting from beyond the arc was his calling card, as he hit 43.3% of his three-point attempts, making him one of the most dangerous shooters in the league.

Stojakovic's stellar play earned him his third consecutive All-Star selection and a spot on the All-NBA Second Team. The Kings finished the regular season with a strong 55-27 record, once again positioning themselves as one of the top teams in the Western Conference. Although they were eliminated in the second round of the playoffs by the Minnesota Timberwolves, Stojakovic’s performance throughout the season solidified his place as one of the top small forwards in the NBA.

2004-05 Season - Peja Stojakovic

Stats: 20.1 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 2.0 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

The 2004-05 season saw Peja Stojakovic continue to be the Sacramento Kings’ most reliable scorer, even as the team underwent changes. With Chris Webber being traded midseason, Stojakovic became the clear focal point of the offense. He averaged 20.1 points per game, leading the team in scoring for the second consecutive year. While his overall numbers dipped slightly from the previous season, Stojakovic remained one of the league’s premier shooters, knocking down 40.3% of his three-point attempts.

Despite Stojakovic’s efforts, the Kings began to show signs of decline, finishing the regular season with a 50-32 record and a first-round exit in the playoffs against the Seattle SuperSonics. Stojakovic’s individual performance was still strong, but it was clear that the Kings were entering a new phase as a franchise. His consistency as a scorer, however, kept the team competitive, and he remained a key figure during a transitional period for Sacramento.

2005-06 Season - Mike Bibby

Stats: 21.1 PPG, 2.9 RPG, 5.4 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.2 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

The 2005-06 season marked the beginning of a new era for the Sacramento Kings, with Mike Bibby stepping into the role of the team’s leader following the departure of Chris Webber and Peja Stojakovic. Bibby embraced his new role as the primary offensive option, averaging 21.1 points and 5.4 assists per game. His ability to run the offense and hit clutch shots made him the focal point of the Kings’ attack.

Bibby’s leadership helped the Kings secure a playoff spot with a 44-38 record, despite the team undergoing significant changes. In the first round of the playoffs, the Kings faced the San Antonio Spurs, where Bibby’s efforts kept the series competitive, though Sacramento ultimately fell in six games. While the Kings were no longer the powerhouse they had been in the early 2000s, Bibby’s performance during this season kept them relevant and competitive in a tough Western Conference.

2006-07 Season - Mike Bibby

Stats: 17.1 PPG, 3.2 RPG, 4.7 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

In the 2006-07 season, Mike Bibby continued to be the steady hand for the Sacramento Kings, though the team was clearly in a transitional phase. Bibby’s scoring dipped slightly to 17.1 points per game, but he remained the primary playmaker, averaging 4.7 assists. As the Kings’ most experienced player, Bibby took on the responsibility of leading a younger roster through a challenging season.

The Kings struggled throughout the year, finishing with a 33-49 record and missing the playoffs for the first time since 1998. Despite the team’s difficulties, Bibby’s leadership on the floor was crucial in maintaining a competitive spirit within the squad. His ability to score and facilitate, even as the team around him was changing, underscored his importance to the franchise during this period of rebuilding.

2007-08 Season - Kevin Martin

Stats: 23.7 PPG, 4.5 RPG, 2.1 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

The 2007-08 season marked a turning point for the Sacramento Kings, as Kevin Martin emerged as the team’s new leading scorer. With Mike Bibby traded midseason, Martin took on the role of the Kings’ primary offensive weapon, averaging a career-high 23.7 points per game. His ability to score efficiently, particularly his knack for getting to the free-throw line, made him one of the most dangerous young scorers in the league.

Martin’s rise came at a time when the Kings were fully embracing a rebuilding phase, finishing the season with a 38-44 record and missing the playoffs for the second consecutive year. Despite the team’s struggles, Martin’s breakout season provided a glimpse of hope for the future, as he established himself as a foundational piece for the Kings moving forward. His scoring prowess was the highlight of an otherwise challenging season for Sacramento.

2008-09 Season - Kevin Martin

Stats: 24.6 PPG, 3.6 RPG, 2.7 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.1 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

Kevin Martin continued to lead the Sacramento Kings during the 2008-09 season, further cementing his role as the team’s top scorer. Martin’s 24.6 points per game were a career-high, and he once again showcased his ability to score efficiently from all over the court. His quick release and ability to draw fouls made him a consistent threat, even as the Kings endured a tough season.

The Kings finished with a league-worst 17-65 record, highlighting the challenges of their rebuilding process. Despite the team’s poor performance, Martin’s individual success was a bright spot. His ability to carry the scoring load on a nightly basis demonstrated his value to the franchise, even as the team around him struggled to find its footing. Martin’s back-to-back standout seasons solidified his place as the face of the Kings during this difficult period.

2009-10 Season - Tyreke Evans

Stats: 20.1 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 5.8 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA Rookie of the Year

The 2009-10 season was a bright spot in the Sacramento Kings’ rebuilding efforts, thanks to the arrival of Tyreke Evans. As a rookie, Evans made an immediate impact, leading the team in scoring, assists, and steals. His versatility and ability to fill up the stat sheet earned him the NBA Rookie of the Year award, as he became just the fourth rookie in NBA history to average at least 20 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists per game—a feat not achieved since Michael Jordan.

Evans’ dynamic play provided the Kings with a much-needed spark, and his performance was a major source of optimism for the future. Despite the team finishing with a 25-57 record, Evans’ emergence as a potential franchise player gave Sacramento fans hope that the team was finally heading in the right direction. His rookie season remains one of the most memorable in Kings history, as he quickly established himself as the centerpiece of the team’s rebuilding process.

2010-11 Season - Tyreke Evans

Stats: 17.8 PPG, 4.8 RPG, 5.6 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

Tyreke Evans continued to lead the Sacramento Kings during the 2010-11 season, although it proved to be a more challenging year for the young star. Evans battled injuries throughout the season, which affected his performance and availability, leading to a dip in his numbers compared to his stellar rookie campaign. Despite these setbacks, Evans still managed to average 17.8 points, 5.6 assists, and 4.8 rebounds per game, showcasing his ability to contribute in multiple areas.

The Kings, however, struggled as a team, finishing with a 24-58 record, which further highlighted the difficulties of their rebuilding process. Although Evans wasn’t able to replicate the success of his rookie year, he remained the focal point of the team’s offense and a key figure in their future plans. His ability to play through adversity and continue to produce solid numbers was a testament to his talent and potential, even in a tough season.

2011-12 Season - DeMarcus Cousins

Stats: 18.1 PPG, 11.0 RPG, 1.6 APG, 1.5 SPG, 1.2 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

The 2011-12 season marked the beginning of the DeMarcus Cousins era in Sacramento. Cousins emerged as the team’s most dominant player, leading the Kings in both scoring and rebounding. Averaging 18.1 points and 11.0 rebounds per game, Cousins quickly established himself as one of the most talented young big men in the NBA. His ability to control the paint on both ends of the floor made him the focal point of Sacramento’s game plan.

Despite Cousins’ impressive individual performances, the Kings continued to struggle as a team, finishing the season with a 22-44 record in a lockout-shortened year. However, Cousins’ emergence as a force in the middle provided a foundation for the future. His combination of size, skill, and physicality made him a nightmare matchup for opponents, and it became clear that he would be the player to build around as the Kings looked to return to relevance in the coming years.

Related: Chicago Bulls: The Best Player In Each Season Of The 21st Century

2012-13 Season - DeMarcus Cousins

Stats: 17.1 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 2.7 APG, 1.4 SPG, 0.7 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

DeMarcus Cousins continued to be the focal point for the Sacramento Kings in the 2012-13 season. Even though his scoring and rebounding numbers slightly dipped from the previous year, Cousins remained the most consistent performer on the team. Averaging nearly a double-double, he was a force in the paint, both offensively and defensively. However, the season was marred by inconsistency and off-court issues, which contributed to the team’s struggles.

The Kings finished the season with a 28-54 record, missing the playoffs once again. Despite the team's lackluster performance, Cousins showed flashes of brilliance that hinted at his potential to be one of the best big men in the league. His ability to handle the ball and facilitate from the post made him a unique talent, but it was clear that the Kings needed more stability and support around him to turn things around.

2013-14 Season - DeMarcus Cousins

Stats: 22.7 PPG, 11.7 RPG, 2.9 APG, 1.5 SPG, 1.3 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

DeMarcus Cousins took a significant step forward in the 2013-14 season, becoming one of the most dominant centers in the NBA. With averages of 22.7 points and 11.7 rebounds per game, Cousins showcased his ability to take over games with his scoring and rebounding. His improved conditioning allowed him to be more effective throughout games, and his defensive presence continued to grow with 1.5 steals and 1.3 blocks per game.

However, the Kings continued to struggle as a team, finishing with a 28-54 record for the second straight year. The lack of a strong supporting cast around Cousins hindered their progress, but his individual performances gave hope that he could be the cornerstone of the franchise moving forward. Cousins' versatility and dominance in the paint made him one of the most feared big men in the league, even if the team’s overall success didn’t reflect his impact.

2014-15 Season - DeMarcus Cousins

Stats: 24.1 PPG, 12.7 RPG, 3.6 APG, 1.5 SPG, 1.7 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

In the 2014-15 season, DeMarcus Cousins reached a new level of recognition as he earned his first NBA All-Star selection and a spot on the All-NBA Second Team. Cousins dominated the paint like never before, averaging 24.1 points and 12.7 rebounds per game, while also showing his playmaking abilities with 3.6 assists per game. His defensive impact was equally impressive, as he averaged 1.5 steals and 1.7 blocks per game.

This season was a turning point for Cousins, as he was finally acknowledged as one of the top players in the league. Despite the Kings' continued struggles, finishing with a 29-53 record, Cousins' performances were a beacon of hope for the franchise. His ability to carry the team on both ends of the court and his recognition among the league's elite solidified his status as the face of the Kings and one of the most dominant centers in the NBA.

2015-16 Season - DeMarcus Cousins

Stats: 26.9 PPG, 11.5 RPG, 3.3 APG, 1.6 SPG, 1.4 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Second Team

DeMarcus Cousins continued his reign as one of the NBA's top big men during the 2015-16 season. Building on the momentum from the previous year, Cousins averaged a career-high 26.9 points per game while also pulling down 11.5 rebounds and dishing out 3.3 assists per game. His ability to score both inside and out made him a nightmare matchup for opponents, and his defensive presence remained strong with 1.6 steals and 1.4 blocks per game.

Cousins' dominant performance earned him another All-Star selection and a spot on the All-NBA Second Team for the second consecutive year. However, despite his efforts, the Kings continued to struggle as a team, finishing the season with a 33-49 record. The ongoing turmoil within the organization, including coaching changes and front office instability, made it difficult for the team to build around Cousins effectively. Nevertheless, his individual brilliance remained the highlight of the Kings' season, further cementing his legacy as one of the most talented centers in the league.

2016-17 Season - DeMarcus Cousins

Stats: 27.8 PPG, 10.6 RPG, 4.8 APG, 1.4 SPG, 1.3 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star

The 2016-17 season was a pivotal one for both DeMarcus Cousins and the Sacramento Kings. Cousins continued to put up monster numbers, averaging 27.8 points, 10.6 rebounds, and a career-high 4.8 assists per game. His ability to score, pass, and defend made him one of the most versatile big men in the league, and he earned yet another All-Star selection as a result.

However, the season also marked the end of Cousins' time in Sacramento. In February 2017, the Kings made the controversial decision to trade Cousins to the New Orleans Pelicans, signaling a new direction for the franchise. Despite the trade, Cousins' impact on the Kings during his tenure was undeniable. He left as one of the most productive players in franchise history, and his departure marked the end of an era for Sacramento basketball.

2017-18 Season - De'Aaron Fox

Stats: 11.6 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 4.4 APG, 1.0 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

The 2017-18 season was the beginning of a new era for the Sacramento Kings, as rookie De'Aaron Fox took the reins as the team's point guard. Although his rookie numbers were modest compared to the star power of his predecessor, Fox quickly showed flashes of the speed and playmaking ability that made him the fifth overall pick in the draft. He averaged 11.6 points and 4.4 assists per game, providing a foundation for the Kings to build upon.

While the Kings finished with a 27-55 record, Fox’s rookie season was an important step in the team’s rebuilding process. His leadership and potential as a dynamic floor general gave the Kings hope for the future. The season may have been filled with growing pains, but Fox’s development as the team’s new leader was the first sign that brighter days could be ahead for Sacramento.

2018-19 Season - De'Aaron Fox

Stats: 17.3 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 7.3 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

De'Aaron Fox made a significant leap in his second NBA season, emerging as the Sacramento Kings' most important player and one of the most promising young point guards in the league. Fox increased his scoring to 17.3 points per game while also dishing out 7.3 assists, nearly doubling his assist numbers from his rookie year. His speed and ability to push the pace made the Kings one of the most exciting young teams to watch, and his defensive contributions, with 1.6 steals per game, showed his growth on both ends of the floor.

The Kings finished the season with a 39-43 record, a marked improvement from the previous year and their best season since 2005-06. While they narrowly missed the playoffs, Fox's development was a major reason for optimism in Sacramento. His ability to lead the team as a floor general, combined with his scoring and defensive prowess, made him the clear cornerstone of the franchise’s future.

2019-20 Season - De'Aaron Fox

Stats: 21.1 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 6.8 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

The 2019-20 season saw De'Aaron Fox continue to establish himself as the face of the Sacramento Kings. Fox elevated his game even further, averaging 21.1 points and 6.8 assists per game, solidifying his role as the team's primary scorer and playmaker. His ability to attack the rim, coupled with his improved shooting, made him a complete offensive threat, while his quick hands and anticipation allowed him to remain a defensive force with 1.5 steals per game.

Despite Fox's individual success, the Kings struggled with consistency and finished the season with a 31-41 record, missing the playoffs once again. The season was also disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, which halted play in March and led to the NBA’s Orlando bubble. Although the Kings did not make a significant impact during the resumed season, Fox's continued growth provided hope that Sacramento was still on the right path, with their young star leading the way.

2020-21 Season - De'Aaron Fox

Stats: 25.2 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 7.2 APG, 1.5 SPG, 0.5 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

In the 2020-21 season, De'Aaron Fox took his game to yet another level, becoming one of the league's top scoring point guards. He averaged a career-high 25.2 points per game, along with 7.2 assists, showcasing his ability to carry the Kings' offense on a nightly basis. Fox’s explosiveness and ability to finish at the rim made him nearly unstoppable in transition, while his improved playmaking continued to drive the team’s offense.

However, despite Fox’s stellar individual performances, the Kings once again failed to translate that into team success, finishing with a 31-41 record. The ongoing struggles to build a competitive roster around Fox highlighted the challenges facing the franchise, but his growth as a player provided a strong foundation for future hopes. Fox’s leadership and consistent improvement solidified his role as the centerpiece of Sacramento’s long-term plans.

2021-22 Season - De'Aaron Fox

Stats: 23.2 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 5.6 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.4 BPG

Achievements And Awards: None

De'Aaron Fox remained the driving force for the Sacramento Kings during the 2021-22 season. Although his scoring dipped slightly from the previous year, he continued to lead the team with 23.2 points per game, along with 5.6 assists and 1.2 steals. Fox’s quickness and ability to penetrate defenses were still the highlights of his game, and he maintained his role as the Kings' go-to player in clutch situations.

The Kings, however, struggled to find consistency and finished the season with a 30-52 record, missing the playoffs once again. The season was marked by midseason trades and roster changes, including the acquisition of Domantas Sabonis, which signaled a new direction for the team. Despite the team's lack of success, Fox's performance remained a bright spot, and his partnership with Sabonis offered a glimpse of potential for the future. The challenge for the Kings moving forward would be building a competitive team around their star point guard.

2022-23 Season - De'Aaron Fox

Stats: 25.0 PPG, 4.2 RPG, 6.1 APG, 1.1 SPG, 0.3 BPG

Achievements And Awards: NBA All-Star, All-NBA Third Team, NBA Clutch Player of the Year

The 2022-23 season was a breakthrough year for De'Aaron Fox, who finally received the recognition he had long deserved with his first NBA All-Star selection and a spot on the All-NBA Third Team. Fox averaged 25.0 points per game, continuing to elevate his play and solidifying his status as one of the league's top point guards. His ability to deliver in high-pressure situations earned him the inaugural NBA Clutch Player of the Year award, highlighting his importance to the Kings' success in close games.

Fox's leadership helped propel the Kings to their first playoff appearance since 2006, ending a 16-year drought that had long frustrated fans. The Kings finished the season with a 48-34 record, one of their best in recent memory. Although they were eliminated in the first round by the Golden State Warriors, Fox’s performance throughout the season and playoffs provided a strong foundation for the team’s future. His partnership with Domantas Sabonis and the emergence of young talent around him gave Sacramento hope that they were finally on the path to sustained success.

2023-24 Season - Domantas Sabonis

Stats: 19.4 PPG, 13.7 RPG, 8.2 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.6 BPG

Achievements And Awards: All-NBA Third Team

In the 2023-24 season, Domantas Sabonis took on the role of the Sacramento Kings' key player, proving once again his value as one of the most versatile big men in the NBA. Sabonis delivered across the board, averaging 19.4 points, 13.7 rebounds, and 8.2 assists per game. His ability to orchestrate the offense from the center position, combined with his dominance on the boards, made him the backbone of the Kings’ strategy throughout the season.

Despite Sabonis' impressive individual stats, the Kings faced several challenges, ultimately landing in the play-in tournament. Their season came to an abrupt end with a loss to the New Orleans Pelicans in the play-in game, which dashed their hopes of making a deeper playoff run. Although Sabonis didn't secure an All-Star nod this season, he ended up in the All-NBA Third Team. His contributions were crucial in keeping the Kings competitive and providing leadership on the court.

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