Randolph speaks about reduced role in Kings’ youth movement

floor.

“We kind of knew what was going to happen here – the way we were going to play – and obviously Zach doesn’t fit that style,” Divac said. “The pace that we go up and down, it would be hard on his body, but in the low post, I think he still has it.”

Randolph, now in his 18th NBA season, was listed as inactive for the first 10 games. He isn’t sure if he’ll suit up at all for the Kings this season.

“I don’t know. Not right now,” he said. “I’m just expecting to watch these young guys. You never know how the season goes, but I’ll be ready and prepared to play.”

Randolph said he has not asked the Kings to trade him, but he believes he could help a playoff contender looking to acquire frontcourt depth at the trade deadline.

“We haven’t discussed that yet, but we will,” said Randolph, a two-time All-star who signed a twoyear, $24 million contract with Sacramento in July 2017.

Randolph shares a close personal relationship with Joerger, who coached him for years with the Memphis Grizzlies.

“He’s just a terrific human being,” Joerger said. “He’s a big teddy bear. He’s got a good heart and we have a great relationship, and he respects the heck out of Vlade as well. This is not easy, but he’s been a pro about it, and he’s been very supportive of our young guys.”

Joerger and Divac said Randolph has played a key role in mentoring younger big men such as Willie Cauley-stein, Skal Labissiere, Harry Giles III and, more recently, Marvin Bagley III.

“I’m always asking him questions,” Bagley said. “We’re both left-handed, so one thing I’ve asked him is how he was able to use that as a strength.”

Cauley-stein said the team’s youngsters understand the sacrifice Randolph Sacramento Kings forward Zach Randolph contests an out of bounds call against his team as they defended against the Brooklyn Nets during their game at the Golden 1 Center on Thursday, March 1, 2018.

is making.

“He probably wants to play so bad, but we have four other young dudes who gotta play, too,” Cauley-stein said. “Him being positive is why we love him. Like, man, ‘You can still play and you’re OK with us taking those minutes from you? You’re helping us out?’ It’s all love, man.” Giles agreed. “He was just scoring 30 points last year, so to have to sit out and give up his spot, it’s tough, but it shows how much he cares about us young guys and putting the team first,” Giles said. “It means a lot to us – he means a lot to us. He’s a great guy, somebody I’ve looked up to my whole life and somebody that will be in my corner for the rest of my life. Through the struggles and the successes, I know he’ll be there.”

Randolph has been in Sacramento just long enough to see the team’s future. He believes it is bright, even if he isn’t part of the plan.