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Kings Target Top Scoring Guard in ESPN’s Latest Post-Lottery Mock Draft

In ESPN’s newest 2025 NBA Mock Draft following the lottery results, the Sacramento Kings are projected to take a standout college guard.

The draft lottery delivered a major surprise when the Dallas Mavericks landed the No. 1 overall pick. Meanwhile, the Kings remained at the 13th spot — just outside the protected range — meaning their first-round pick will now go to the Atlanta Hawks.

Despite losing their top-12 protected first-rounder, Sacramento still holds the 42nd overall pick via the Chicago Bulls, and there’s optimism that notable talent will be available at that stage of the draft.

According to ESPN analysts Jonathan Givony and Jeremy Woo, the Kings are predicted to draft Chaz Lanier from Tennessee at No. 42.

Lanier, 23, transferred to Tennessee for his fifth collegiate season after four years at North Florida. He made an immediate impact in the SEC, averaging 18.0 points, 3.9 rebounds, 1.1 assists, and 0.9 steals per game, with shooting splits of 43.1% from the field, 39.5% from three, and 75.8% from the free-throw line.

Known for his polished scoring and efficient shooting, Lanier could bring instant offense. However, it’s unclear how new Kings GM Scott Perry plans to approach the draft. Given the current makeup of the roster, Lanier may not fill a pressing need, but that could shift as draft day approaches. Measuring 6-foot-4 and 206 pounds with a 6-foot-9 wingspan, Lanier brings size but some questions remain about his defensive capabilities at the pro level.

In this scenario, Sacramento would pass on other options like Milos Uzan, Boogie Fland, Darrion Williams, and Kam Jones — all of whom might be a better positional fit — but Lanier’s scoring upside could make him a worthwhile gamble.

Lanier was a Wooden All-American and took home the Jerry West Award, which honors the nation’s top shooting guard. He had a dominant college season, and if the Kings believe his offensive game will translate, he could be a strong, NBA-ready addition at No. 42.