Iowa's Kris Murray Could Land in Sacramento as Grizzlies Trim Roster
The Sacramento Kings have an open roster spot and a two-way slot available, and three Memphis Grizzlies castaways could fill the need. Among them is Kris Murray, the Iowa native and twin brother of Kings forward Keegan Murray, who could be a natural fit in California's capital.
NBA insider Jake Fischer recently identified Micah Peavy, Walter Clayton Jr., and Kris Murray as likely casualties when Memphis trims its roster from 19 players down to the league-maximum 15 before the regular season begins.
Why the Kings Have Room to Add Talent
Sacramento currently carries 14 full-time rostered players with two of three two-way slots filled. That leaves the front office with flexibility to take a flier on a player who could contribute to the team's next competitive window.
The Grizzlies must cut four players, and Fischer's list gives the Kings a clear shopping list.
Kris Murray: A Familiar Name for Iowa Fans
Kris Murray starred at Iowa alongside his brother Keegan before Keegan went fourth overall in the 2022 NBA Draft. Kris stayed in Iowa City for his senior season and became the Hawkeyes' go-to scorer, averaging over 20 points per game and earning third-team All-American honors under coach Fran McCaffery.
At 6-foot-8, Kris brings the same two-way versatility that made Keegan a cornerstone in Sacramento. He uses his frame and quickness to stay in front of ball handlers, and his basketball IQ makes him a reliable help defender.
His NBA shooting numbers have been rough so far, but the potential remains. If Kris can knock down open threes at a league-average clip, he has a role in this league.
Micah Peavy: Defensive Stopper With Size
Peavy measured 6-foot-6.25 at the combine and brings exactly what the Kings need on the perimeter. He led the Big East in steals at Georgetown in 2024-25, averaging 2.3 per game while shooting 40 percent from three on four attempts per game.
His NBA offense has been a struggle, shooting under 40 percent from the field and under 30 percent from deep. But he rarely turns the ball over, plays with relentless energy, and keeps firing from beyond the arc. For a Kings team projected to have one of the league's worst defenses, Peavy would be an immediate upgrade.
Walter Clayton Jr.: Big-Moment Performer
Clayton made a name for himself during Florida's run to the 2025 National Championship, consistently delivering in clutch moments. His size is a concern with a 6-foot-4 wingspan, but he plays physical and won't be pushed around.
His limited NBA action last season was unimpressive, yet his career shooting numbers and 90 percent free-throw rate suggest he can be a reliable floor spacer if left open.
Ranking the Best Fit for Sacramento
Peavy tops the list for the Kings. His defensive intensity and size next to Darius Acuff Jr. make him a no-brainer if Memphis waives him. Clayton offers another ball-handling option off the bench. Murray's skill set is somewhat redundant given Sacramento's solid wing group, but he remains a valuable insurance policy if Ben Simmons struggles or De'Andre Hunter gets traded at the deadline.
For Iowa fans, watching Kris Murray get a real opportunity in Sacramento would be a storyline worth following. The Kings have a decision to make, and the Grizzlies' roster crunch could hand them a gift.