Sacramento Kings Retain Coach Doug Christie Despite 22-59 Season

The Sacramento Kings have decided to retain head coach Doug Christie for the 2026-27 season despite a 22-59 record.

“Kings will bring back coach Doug Christie for a second full season, AP source says Doug Christie will return for a second full season as coach of the Sacramento Kings despite the team having one of the worst seasons in franchise history Doug Christie will return for a second full season as coach of the Sacramento Kings despite the team having one of the worst seasons in franchise history”

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Christie initially took over as interim coach in December 2024 after the Kings fired Mike Brown.

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New general manager Scott Perry gave him the full-time job, signing him to a three-year deal.

The decision reflects the franchise's belief that he was never given a proper runway with the current roster.

The Kings never played a game with their projected starting lineup.

Christie is also a favorite of team owner Vivek Ranadive and remains popular with the fan base.

The Kings' season was marred by a cascade of injuries that forced Christie to deploy 35 different starting lineups.

Murray suffered a torn thumb ligament in the preseason.

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Sabonis was limited to 19 games before meniscus surgery.

LaVine played 39 games before season-ending hand surgery.

Christie led the Kings to an 8-9 record over the past 17 games.

The Kings finished tied for the fourth-worst record in the league at 22-59.

The Kings face significant roster decisions this offseason.

“Kings reportedly retaining Doug Christie as coach despite disappointing 2025-26 season Christie replaced Mike Brown midway through the 2024-25 season The Sacramento Kings will retain head coach Doug Christie going into next season, according to The Athletic”

CBS Sports

They are expected to revisit trade discussions involving LaVine, Sabonis, Monk, and DeRozan.

LaVine is expected to exercise a $48.9 million player option.

Sabonis is owed approximately $94 million over the next two years.

The Kings previously engaged in trade talks with the Raptors involving Sabonis.

The team holds strong lottery positioning after finishing tied for the fourth-worst record.

Christie played for the Kings from 2000-05 at the height of their success under Rick Adelman.

His love and dedication to the Kings organization is unquestionable.

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The decision to retain him reflects a belief that coaching stability can provide a more accurate measure of the team’s direction.

Christie’s combined record as interim and full-time head coach now stands at 49-83.