7 Basketball Players who Played for Kings and Cavaliers
There is a good chance that if you’ve found this page then you’re playing the Immaculate Grid.
That also means that today’s grid has asked for players that have played for both the Sacramento Kings and Cleveland Cavaliers.
And, it also means that you’re probably stuck on this particular box and you’re looking for a little help. Sound about right so far?
Well, good news, you’re in the right place.
I’ve done some research and have found players who played for both the Kings and the Cavaliers.
Matthew Dellavedova
Matthew Dellavedova is a player from Australia, known for his gritty play and exceptional passing ability. He was undrafted in the 2013 NBA Draft, but Dellavedova’s tenacity earned him a spot on the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he quickly established himself as a valuable role player.
Dellavedova was part of the Cavaliers team that won the NBA Championship in 2016. His hustle and defensive intensity made him a favorite among both his teammates and fans.
Dellavedova has also had a successful international career. He’s been a key member of the Australian national team, helping them achieve several high finishes in international competitions.
*Dellavedova was previously the most popular pick for this square (Grid 5)
Tristan Thompson
Tristan Thompson was selected 4th overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 2011 NBA Draft. He quickly became a mainstay in the Cavaliers’ rotation, with his ability to grab offensive rebounds and provide second-chance opportunities standing out.
In 2016, Thompson, along with LeBron James and the rest of the Cavaliers, won the NBA Championship, ending Cleveland’s 52-year professional sports title drought by defeating the Golden State Warriors. Thompson’s defensive efforts and ability to match up against various opponents played a crucial role during this championship run.
After nearly a decade with the Cavaliers, Thompson moved on to the Boston Celtics and then bounced around with multiple teams (Kings, Pacers, Bulls) during his final season in the league.
Thompson Key Stats
- NBA Championship (Cavs)
- 10+ Rebounds/Game Season (Cavs)
Andre Miller
Andre Miller was drafted 8th overall by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the 1999 NBA Draft after a successful college career at the University of Utah. His NBA journey took him to multiple teams including the Clippers, 76ers, Trail Blazers, Nuggets, Wizards, Kings, Timberwolves, and Spurs.
Throughout his career, Miller was often among the league leaders in assists. In fact, as of this writing, he ranks 12th all-time in assists in the NBA (8524). He also led the league in assists in 2001-02, averaging 10.9 assists per game.
Miller was never an All-Star but was a key contributor on many teams throughout his 17-year career, demonstrating an ability to fit into various systems and roles.
Miller Key Stats
- 5+ Assists/Game Season (Cavaliers, Clippers, Nuggets, 76ers, Trail Blazers)
Rajon Rondo
Rajon Rondo was selected by the Phoenix Suns with the 21st pick in the 2006 NBA Draft, but was immediately traded to the Boston Celtics. He quickly became a starter and vital component for the Celtics, helping them win the NBA championship in 2008 alongside the “Big Three” of Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, and Ray Allen.
Rondo led the NBA in assists per game three times (2012, 2013, and 2016), and he’s recognized for his playoff performances, stepping up his game significantly in the postseason.
Rondo played for the Celtics until 2014, and since then he has had stints with the Mavericks, Kings, Bulls, Pelicans, Lakers, and Hawks. His second NBA Championship came in 2020 with the Lakers, where his veteran experience and leadership proved pivotal.
Rondo Key Stats
- All-NBA (Celtics)
- All-Star (Celtics)
- NBA Championship (Celtics, Lakers)
- 5+ Assists/Game Season (Celtics, Kings, Bulls, Pelicans)
Jim Jackson
Jim Jackson entered the NBA when he was selected 4th overall by the Dallas Mavericks in the 1992 NBA Draft.
In Dallas, he quickly showcased his scoring prowess, becoming one of the young pillars of the team alongside Jason Kidd and Jamal Mashburn. However, despite the promise, the trio was short-lived due to various factors, including injuries and internal dynamics.
What followed for Jackson was a journeyman’s career, as he played for 12 different NBA teams, which included stints with the 76ers, Warriors, Trail Blazers, and Rockets, among others. Despite the frequent relocations, Jackson consistently proved his worth on the court, often providing a scoring punch and veteran presence.
Jackson Key Stats
- 20+ Points/Game Season (Mavericks)
- 5+ Assists/Game Season (Nets, Warriors)
Scot Pollard
Scot Pollard brought a distinctive flair to the NBA, not just with his varying hairstyles and beards but also with his rugged play on the court. Drafted 19th overall in the 1997 NBA Draft by the Detroit Pistons, he made a more significant impact after joining the Kings.
With the Kings, Pollard became a key rotation player on teams that were perennial playoff contenders in the early 2000s.
Later in his career, he played for the Pacers, Cavaliers, and Celtics. His time with the Celtics was especially noteworthy, as he was part of their 2008 roster that won an NBA title, solidifying his career with a ring.
Omri Casspi
Omri Casspi’s journey to the NBA began when he was selected 23rd overall by the Sacramento Kings in the 2009 NBA Draft. In his debut season, Casspi showcased his offensive talent, earning a spot in the NBA’s Rising Stars Challenge during All-Star weekend.
Throughout his NBA career, Casspi played for various teams, including the Kings, Cavaliers, Rockets, Pelicans, Timberwolves, Warriors, and Grizzlies. While he was primarily utilized as a role player, Casspi was known for his three-point shooting, basketball IQ, and hustle on the court.
Beyond the NBA, Casspi was a key player for the Israeli national team, representing his country in multiple FIBA tournaments and European Championships. His commitment to the growth of basketball in Israel and his trailblazing journey in the NBA has made him an icon in Israeli sports.
