Kings Unlikely To Remain in Sacramento, Mayor Says

It’s not looking good for Sacramento Kings fans. Tuesday morning Mayor Kevin Johnson told reporters there is now a greater chance the Kings will leave Sacramento than they will stay. However, Johnson made it clear that as far as he knows no official relocation decision has been made. The mayor made the announcement in his weekly press conference at city hall.

Rumors whether the Kings would remain in Sacramento began more than five years ago when the campaign to build a new $600 million facility in downtown Sacramento was rejected. In 2006 the initiatives, better known as ballot measures Q and R were unanimously rejected. Other initiatives, since failed, were developed which included a land swap with the California Expo Board in late September of 2010.

Since then, the NBA has stopped helping owners Joe and Gavin Maloof find a new arena in Sacramento. Las Vegas, Nevada, Anaheim, California and even Montreal, Canada have been touted as potential new homes.

Mayor Johnson has plans to meet with the Maloofs to talk about relocating the Kings and NBA Commissioner, David Stern to discuss the NBA Board of Governor’s decision. Johnson said he believes Sacramento deserves “a team” and has not denied talking with other NBA teams about coming to Sacramento.

It’s time to weigh in on the subject. Should the Kings remain in the city despite speculation the Maloofs would rather relocate their team? Should Mayor Johnson continue championing the Kings or continue negotiations for a new Sacramento team? Fair Oaks Patch would like to hear your thoughts on the subject, so let us know in the comments below.