Kings GM Defends Decision to Retain Doug Christie as Head Coach

Scott Perry explains why the Sacramento Kings are keeping Doug Christie as their head coach.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 2:24pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game or match, with sharp, overlapping planes of color representing the dynamic action on the court.The Kings' decision to retain their young head coach reflects a commitment to development and continuity, even as the team looks to build toward future success.Today in Sacramento

Despite a disastrous 22-60 season, the Sacramento Kings are not making any significant changes and are bringing back first-year head coach Doug Christie for the 2026-27 season. General manager Scott Perry defended the decision, citing Christie's relentless energy, leadership, and ability to develop the team's young players despite the challenges of an injury-ravaged roster.

Why it matters

The Kings' decision to retain Christie as head coach is a bit of a surprise given the team's poor record, but it signals their commitment to continuity and player development rather than a complete overhaul. This move could pay dividends if Christie can build on the progress made with the team's young core in his second season.

The details

Even though the Kings finished tied for last place in the Western Conference, Perry said the team was impressed by Christie's ability to keep the players focused and competitive, as evidenced by an 8-10 record in their final 18 games. The Kings were led during that stretch by young players like Maxime Raynaud, DeMar DeRozan, Precious Achiuwa, and others, showing Christie's ability to develop talent.

  • The Kings finished the 2025-26 season with a 22-60 record.
  • Christie will return as the Kings' head coach for the 2026-27 season.

The players

Scott Perry

The general manager of the Sacramento Kings who defended the decision to retain Doug Christie as head coach.

Doug Christie

The first-year head coach of the Sacramento Kings who will be returning for the 2026-27 season despite the team's poor record.

Maxime Raynaud

A young player who led the Kings during their strong finish to the 2025-26 season.

DeMar DeRozan

A young player who led the Kings during their strong finish to the 2025-26 season.

Precious Achiuwa

A young player who led the Kings during their strong finish to the 2025-26 season.

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What they’re saying

“Watching the growth and opportunity (of the young guys) was really one of the main reasons of making sure that Doug Christie came back here as head coach. Got a chance to see Doug's relentless energy, his leadership that he exhibited with these young guys, his patience. Never wavered through a challenging year. His work ethic was tremendous this year. As a young first-time head coach, what impressed me most was his ability to learn.”

— Scott Perry, General Manager, Sacramento Kings

What’s next

The Kings will look to build on the progress made under Doug Christie's leadership in the 2026-27 season, with a focus on further developing their young core and potentially making a push for the playoffs.

The takeaway

The Kings' decision to retain Doug Christie as head coach despite a poor record signals their commitment to continuity and player development, betting that Christie can build on the progress made with the team's young players in his second season. This move could pay dividends if Christie can lead the team to a more competitive season and help the young core continue to improve.