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Christie Retained
The Sacramento Kings have decided to retain head coach Doug Christie for the 2026-27 season despite a 22-59 record.
“Despite a 22-59 record that has them at the bottom of the Western Conference, the Kings are retaining coach Doug Christie for next season”
Christie initially took over as interim coach in December 2024 after the Kings fired Mike Brown.
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.
Injuries and Roster Chaos
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.
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.
Roster Moves Loom
The Kings face significant roster decisions this offseason.
“The Kings are expected to remain active in trade discussions this offseason”
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's Connection
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.
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.