Kings Sign Undrafted Rookie Cardwell to 4-Year Deal

The Sacramento Kings have locked up a fan favorite in center Dylan Cardwell with a multi-year contract.

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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The Sacramento Kings have signed undrafted rookie center Dylan Cardwell to a four-year contract, according to ESPN's Shams Charania. Cardwell has been a pleasant surprise for the Kings this season, emerging as a defensive force and fan favorite despite going undrafted out of Auburn. The deal includes two fully guaranteed years, keeping Cardwell in Sacramento through at least the 2027-28 season.

Why it matters

Cardwell has quickly become a key part of the Kings' rotation, providing elite rim protection and energy off the bench. Locking him up long-term is a savvy move for a team looking to build around its young core, as Cardwell has shown the potential to be an impactful two-way player at the NBA level.

The details

The 4-year contract for Cardwell includes two fully guaranteed seasons, keeping him with the Kings through at least the 2027-28 campaign. On the season, the undrafted rookie is averaging 4.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 1.7 blocks in 20 minutes per game. While his offensive game is still a work in progress, Cardwell has emerged as the Kings' best rim protector and a fan favorite with his hustle and emotion on the court.

  • The Kings signed Cardwell to the 4-year deal on February 5, 2026.

The players

Dylan Cardwell

An undrafted rookie center out of Auburn who has become a defensive standout and fan favorite for the Sacramento Kings this season.

Shams Charania

An NBA insider and reporter for ESPN who broke the news of Cardwell's contract extension with the Kings.

Doug Christie

The head coach of the Sacramento Kings, who has made Cardwell a key part of the team's rotation and defensive scheme.

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What they’re saying

“The Kings are signing rookie center Dylan Cardwell to a four-year deal, agent Corey Marcum tells ESPN. The deal includes two fully guaranteed years.”

— Shams Charania, NBA Insider (ESPN)

What’s next

The Kings will look to continue developing Cardwell's offensive game over the next two guaranteed seasons, with the hope that he can become an even more well-rounded contributor as they build around their young core.

The takeaway

The Kings' decision to lock up Cardwell long-term is a savvy move that shows their commitment to building through the draft and developing homegrown talent. Even as an undrafted player, Cardwell has proven to be a valuable piece, and this extension gives the team flexibility to continue cultivating his skills as they aim to return to the playoffs.