DaQuan Jeffries gets his call-up from the Kings

DaQuan Jeffries has shown patience and a strong work ethic, and it has finally paid off for the second-year wing out of Tulsa.

The Sacramento Kings signed the 6-5 Oklahoma native to a two-year deal for a reported $3 million. There is a team option for the second year.

Jeffries impressed the Kings last season with his high-energy and athleticism on the court. In 13 games, he averaged 3.8 points and 1.4 rebounds while splitting time between the Stockton Kings of the G-League and the parent club. His efforts on both ends of the court have made him a fan favorite already.

During the 8-game Orlando bubble season, Jeffries got a chance to prove himself averaging 6.1 points and 2.4 rebounds on .515 shooting from the field. His best game was a 5-for-5 shooting performance (including 2-for-2 from deep) on August 2 against the Orlando Magic where he finished with 12 points.

The Kings are going to let the kids battle it out for minutes behind starting small forward Harrison Barnes. Jefferies, Justin James, and rookies Robert Woodard and KJ Martin will all be given chances to claim minutes. General manager Monte McNair is looking for defensive-minded young wings who can hit the shot when left open, but more importantly, not get totally humiliated by the league’s top small forwards.

Only time will tell, but the Kings are obviously hoping one of these guys can grab the opportunity and not force the team to have to go out and bring in another veteran small forward mid-season.

Jefferies is going to do everything within his power to be that guy for the Kings.