6 Basketball Players who Played for Rockets and Kings
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 Houston Rockets and Sacramento Kings.
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 Rockets and the Kings.
DeMarcus Cousins
DeMarcus Cousins, often known by his nickname “Boogie,” is known for his versatile skills and physicality in the center position. He was selected with the 5th overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft by the Kings.
In Sacramento, Cousins quickly became one of the NBA’s top big men, displaying a unique blend of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking abilities. His time with the Kings was characterized by impressive statistical production, but the team struggled to find consistent success.
In 2017, Cousins was traded to the Pelicans where he continued his strong play. However, his time in New Orleans was cut short due to a severe Achilles tendon injury. After his injury, Cousins has had stints with multiple teams over the past few seasons but hasn’t been able to replicate his early career success.
Cousins Key Stats
- All-Star (Kings, Pelicans)
- 20+ Points/Game Season (Kings, Pelicans)
- 10+ Rebounds/Game Season (Kings, Pelicans)
- 5+ Assists/Game Season (Pelicans)
Kevin Martin
Kevin Martin was a player known for his scoring ability during his time in the NBA. He was drafted 26th overall by the Sacramento Kings in the 2004 NBA Draft.
In his early career with the Kings, Martin quickly established himself as a potent scorer, demonstrating a knack for getting to the free-throw line and shooting efficiently from beyond the arc. His most productive season came in 2008-2009 when he averaged 24.6 points per game.
Throughout his career, Martin played for several teams, including the Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder, and Minnesota Timberwolves, always bringing his scoring punch wherever he went. While with the Thunder, he took on a significant role coming off the bench, contributing to a deep playoff run in the 2012-2013 season.
Martin Key Stats
- 20+ Points/Game Season (Kings, Rockets, Timberwolves)
Garrett Temple
Garrett Temple was undrafted out of LSU in the 2009 NBA Draft but worked his way into the league and has developed an impressive 13-year career as a journeyman.
He has played for multiple NBA teams (11 in total), including the Houston Rockets, Sacramento Kings, Memphis Grizzlies, Los Angeles Clippers, Washington Wizards, and Brooklyn Nets. His role has primarily been as a defensive specialist and a veteran presence in the locker room.
He’s been a key contributor on many of the teams he’s played on and has even started in almost 300 games in his career.
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)
Metta World Peace
Metta World Peace (formerly Ron Artest) was selected by the Chicago Bulls in the first round of the 1999 NBA Draft. His tenacious defense and ability to contribute offensively quickly earned him a reputation as one of the league’s top two-way players. In the 2003-04 season with the Pacers he was named the NBA’s Defensive Player of the Year.
Despite his on-court success, World Peace was often in the spotlight for his unpredictable behavior. Most infamously, he was a central figure in the 2004 “Malice at the Palace” incident, a brawl during a game between the Pacers and the Detroit Pistons. This led to a lengthy suspension and affected his public perception.
World Peace later joined the Los Angeles Lakers, where he played a key role in helping the team win the NBA Championship in 2010. His performance in Game 7 of the NBA Finals was particularly crucial, showcasing his ability to perform in high-pressure situations.
World Peace Key Stats
- All-NBA (Pacers)
- All-Star (Pacers)
- NBA Champ (Lakers)
- 20+ Points/Game Season (Pacers, Kings)
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.
