Sacramento Kings rookie Maxime Raynaud commended his teammates this week for helping ensure a smooth transition to the NBA, both on and off the court.
Raynaud was an All-ACC first team selection last season at Stanford, averaging 20.2 points, 10.6 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.4 blocks on 34.7% shooting from 3-point range as a senior. He ranked 11th in the country in points (707) and sixth in rebounds (371).
The 42nd pick had the chance to train with Domantas Sabonis on the court over the offseason at his home in Napa, California. He also received an assist from Zach LaVine, who let him borrow his car to obtain a driver’s license in the United States.
“I’m European, so I have to get a license in the U.S.,” Raynaud said, via Matt George of KXTV. “Zach ended up giving me his car for that, so that was really nice. … A little writing test, driving test. He was kind enough to lend me his car for the day. It worked out well. No scratches on it.”
Raynaud debuted with the Kings in summer league, averaging 12.8 points, six rebounds, 1.4 assists and one block on 49.1% shooting from the field in five appearances. He finished in double figures four times, including a 17-point effort on July 12.
The 7-foot Frenchman is projected to have the opportunity to compete for rotation minutes in training camp. He has the potential to provide the Kings with versatility in the frontcourt, thanks to his size, athleticism and ability to space the floor.
Raynaud was highly touted out of college and was a player the Kings were excited to add through the draft. He is ready to get to work and carve out a role for himself.
“I’m trying to learn as much as possible,” Raynaud said. “I’m trying to help the team compete and win at the highest level. But, being a rookie, trying to learn as much and soak it all in.”
