Kings, Thompson agree to contract

The Kings can mark off their top priority in free agency.

They have reached an agreement with restricted free-agent power forward Jason Thompson, who can sign the contract Wednesday.

"We're really excited about where we are with negotiations," Kings basketball president Geoff Petrie said Sunday. "And it's our intention to enter into a player contract once the moratorium ends."

Thompson and his agent, Leon Rose, could not be reached for comment.

Petrie could not discuss contract specifics, per league rules. But it is believed to be a multiyear deal that will pay Thompson about $6 million in the first season, approximately $1.5 million more than he would have earned if he played under his one-year qualifying offer.

Last season, Thompson averaged 9.1 points and 6.9 rebounds, below his career averages of 10.5 points and 7.2 rebounds. But in 47 games as a starter, he averaged 10 points and eight rebounds.

Thompson, a first-round pick in 2008, regained his starting job after two players brought in to replace him did not produce as expected.

At the start of training camp, the starting power forward spot belonged to Chuck Hayes, a free agent who had signed a four-year contract. But he missed time in camp while having a heart abnormality examined and then dislocated his shoulder.

Both times in Hayes' absence, J.J. Hickson received the starting job. The Kings traded for Hickson, believing he would provide athleticism in the frontcourt alongside center DeMarcus Cousins.

Hickson, however, shot 37 percent and lost the starting job to Thompson. Hickson was waived, and Thompson proved to be the best fit.

Thompson shot a career-high 53.5 percent that also was best among the Kings who played regularly.

Before the season was over, the Kings made it clear they intended to keep Thompson and extended a qualifying offer last month to make him a restricted free agent.

The Kings reiterated their intent to keep Thompson even after drafting power forward Thomas Robinson fifth overall last month. They believe Thompson, Robinson and Cousins will form the core of their post players.

While waiting on a decision from Thompson, the Kings last week met with restricted free-agent forward Ryan Anderson of Orlando. There were numerous reports Sunday that Orlando had agreed to deal Anderson to New Orleans in a sign-and-trade for forward Gustavo Ayon.

Even if he shares minutes with Robinson, Thompson should see plenty of time at forward and as a backup center.

After signing Thompson and Robinson, the Kings will be about $6 million under the salary cap.

"We're still looking at other opportunities," Petrie said.

• Read more articles by Jason Jones

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