Kings giving Doug Christie time despite 0-5 start, report says

October 30, 2026

Doug Christie’s Kings haven’t won a game. That doesn’t mean Sacramento is ready to make a coaching change.

Despite growing speculation around the league, the Kings believe Christie deserves an opportunity to be evaluated with a healthier roster, according to Sam Amick of The Athletic⁠, citing a team source familiar with the organization’s plans.

Thursday’s loss to the previously winless Pelicans dropped Sacramento to 0-5. Naturally, that will get people talking.

But the Kings have been without Ben Simmons, Keegan Murray, Maxime Raynaud and Dylan Cardwell, all expected to play meaningful roles. Simmons is out for the season with a torn Achilles.

Per Amick, the organization’s priority remains development, both for Christie as a first-time head coach and for the young players he’s responsible for bringing along.

Rookie Darius Acuff Jr. is at the center of that assignment.

Acuff delivered 34 points, 14 assists and six rebounds against New Orleans. He also committed six turnovers, illustrating both the promise and the work ahead.

Acuff leads rookies in scoring at 24.0 points per game, though his shooting percentages remain uneven. Getting him comfortable running an NBA offense matters considerably more to Sacramento’s future than any single October result.

That doesn’t give Christie unlimited time. Amick notes that continued losing could increase the pressure, and Christie is in the final guaranteed season of his contract, with a team option for next year.