Rajon Rondo made four straight NBA All-Star teams from 2010 to 2013, but injuries coupled with his mercurial nature have made it difficult for him to regain his prior form over the last few seasons. In an effort to rebuild his value, Rondo settled for a one-year, $9.5 million deal with the Sacramento Kings last offseason. Now, as NBA free agency approaches, there's a possibility that the Kings will let him take his talents elsewhere without much of a fight.
Rondo averaged an impressive 11.9 points, 6.0 rebounds and 11.7 assists this past season (though his shooting still leaves a lot to be desired). However, the Kings only managed to win four more games with him as their full-time point guard as opposed to last season. Adding on to that, Rondo's once-vaunted defense has slipped noticeably in recent seasons. It isn't a shock that new head coach Dave Joerger may not want to deal with the 10-year NBA veteran, and the front office may agree with that sentiment.
According to ESPN's Zach Lowe, Sacramento is not going to get into a bidding war to retain Rondo once the money reaches a certain point. A separate report noted that the Kings have "cooled slightly on the idea of bringing back [Rondo] for a second tour of duty."
Ouch, you know that your value has plummeted when the Kings, who haven't enjoyed a winning season since 2005, are lukewarm about your future with the organization.
Rondo flamed out in spectacular fashion during his one season with the Dallas Mavericks (2014-15), and though he helped re-establish some of his on-court shine this season, teams still view him as somewhat of a risk. If Rondo is allowed to walk in free agency (which is becoming more and more likely given the looming salary cap spike that is coming this summer), Darren Collison will likely assume the starting role when training camp opens, if no other point guard is added.
Rondo can still help a team, but the situation is going to have to be just right.
Follow Brandon Katz at @Great_Katzby
