Even though his shot hasn't consistently fallen, the Sacramento Kings have already seen encouraging signs from rookie guard Darius Acuff Jr. during the Summer League.

Now, with second-year center Maxime Raynaud rejoining the team, Sacramento's young core is beginning to take shape.

Raynaud returned after representing France in FIBA World Cup qualifying. He led the French team with 16 points against Finland. The All-Rookie Second Team selection is expected to make his Summer League debut alongside Acuff as the Kings continue their unbeaten run.

Although the pair have only spent a short time together, Raynaud came away impressed by the seventh overall pick's approach and overall skill set.

“He's a great scorer, great passer,” Raynaud said. “Really talented player. I love playing ball-screen offense. We're just trying to get that chemistry up. At the same time, we have a lot to learn in a very short amount of time, so we're trying to get as much time on the court together as possible.”

"He's a great scorer. Great passer. Really talented player. Really cares about basketball."

-Maxime Raynaud with some high praise for his new teammate Darius Acuff Jr. pic.twitter.com/As2GKPLM79

— Kevin John (@heykevinjohn) July 11, 2026

According to him, building chemistry with Acuff is now one of the team's biggest priorities, particularly because of how well their games could complement each other.

Acuff Jr. Still Needs to Work on Consistency

Despite shooting inconsistently through Summer League, Acuff has shown his playmaking ability. He recorded 19 points and seven assists against the Los Angeles Clippers after averaging 23.5 points during the California Classic. 

While his efficiency remains a work in progress, Sacramento has been encouraged by his shot creation for teammates and aggression.

Raynaud believes Acuff's mindset has stood out just as much as his talent.

"He really wants to work, really cares about basketball and keeps the main thing the main thing," Raynaud said.

However, the French center also admitted there is still plenty to learn about his new teammate after arriving back with the team less than two days earlier.

Raynaud's return gives Sacramento another offensive weapon after an impressive rookie campaign. The 7-foot-1 center averaged 12.5 points and 7.5 rebounds while shooting 57.1% from the field, earning All-Rookie honors after being selected with the No. 42 overall pick in 2025.

His presence should ease some of the offensive burden on Acuff, who has carried a heavy workload through Sacramento's first four Summer League games. The Kings have also got strong contributions from second-round pick Emanuel Sharp, whose scoring and perimeter defense have made him one of the early standouts in Las Vegas.

With Raynaud back in the lineup, Sacramento will get its first extended look at one of the franchise's most intriguing young duos.  

Join the Community! Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news!

It's completely free to join, simply by clicking the yellow button at the top of the homepage. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members.

Download the free Roundtable APP (https://apps.apple.com/us/app/roundtable-rtb/id6450423049) and stay even more connected!