The Kings’ season has gone the way many thought it would. Keon Ellis has averaged 14.7 minutes in his last three games, and general manager Scott Perry joined “Sactown Sports” to clear up any controversy surrounding the 25-year-old.

“There is no difference in opinion on Keon Ellis,” Perry explained. “Doug has a great deal of respect for him. Actually, Doug knows Keon better than I do. He’s coached the kid for the last couple of years. I’m getting to know Keon with each practice, each game that moves forward.”

Perry is in his first year as general manager with Sacramento, and he has a lot of work to do. The Kings currently sit at 6-18, tied for the second-worst record in the West. Perry went on to rave about Ellis’ character.

“He is a professional,” Perry continued. “He exemplifies the six pillars that you guys have heard me talk about when I talk about being competitive, tough, team-oriented, accountable, professional, and disciplined.”

Having players that show these characteristics is vital, but it doesn’t always result in victories. The Kings are expected to be active before the trade deadline, likely trying to set themselves up for the future.

“It’s no secret that we’re a smaller basketball team,” Perry explained. “We have a number of guards right now, and so there are only so many minutes to go around.”

Reconstructing the roster to offload some of the guards and attain assets for the future could be a possibility; it’s just a matter of whether Ellis will be a name brought up in those conversations.

“I think as the season moves on, we will continue to see Doug push a number of different buttons, Perry said. “I’m sure that Keon will be a recipient of some more minutes. Whether it be based on opponents, or his play, or trying to find the right combinations.”

Amid all the rumors, Perry was crystal clear with his final statement.

“We like Keon Ellis here.”

It seems there is no disconnect between Ellis, coach Christie and the front office. That doesn’t necessarily mean a deal won’t still be talked about, as the NBA trade deadline isn’t until Feb. 5.

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