Kings Notes: Kings open Friday workout for prospects to media
The veil will be lifted briefly today as the Kings hold an open workout for the media in anticipation of the June 26 NBA draft.
The Kings will work out six players, including four potential first-round draft picks. Included in the mix is Russell Westbrook (6-foot-3, point guard, UCLA), Darrell Arthurr (6-10, power forward, Kansas), Joe Alexander (6-8, small forward, West Virginia) and Ty Lawson (5-11, point guard, North Carolina).
Nicolas Batum (6-8, small forward, Le Mans, France) and Othello Hunter (6-8, power forward, Ohio State) are also scheduled for today's 9:30 a.m. workout at the Kings' practice facility.
Westbrook's athleticism has made him a successful combo guard, although he is expected to primarily play point guard once drafted. Arthur has shown a variety of strong post moves, averaging 12.8 points last season, but most scouts remain cautious of what they call inconsistent play.
Alexander is consistently credited with great athleticism around the rim and received rave reviews from the Phoenix Suns' front office during a recent workout.
Lawson, a speedy, athletic leader, has run into a few snags in his workout schedule. He twisted his ankle working out with the Washington Wizards and had to reschedule with the Denver Nuggets after he was arrested and charged with driving after consuming alcohol.
The open workouts held by the Kings mark the first time this year that reporters have been invited to watch. Although many NBA teams routinely release their scheduled workouts and hold interview sessions with prospects for media, that has not been the policy practiced by the Kings.
