Aaron Brooks and the Sacramento Kings Agree to a Buyout

The turmoil continues in Sacramento.

After being buried even deeper on the bench in California's capital with the addition of Toney Douglas, Aaron Brooks and the Sacramento Kings have agreed to a buyout, according to USA Today.

Brooks was fighting a losing battle for playing time among Douglas, Jimmer Fredette, Marcus Thornton, Isaiah Thomas and Tyreke Evans at times. This buyout was best for both sides.

This was the first year of the two-year, $6.6 million contract he signed before this season. He's had a few shining moments, but it just wasn't the best fit for him, considering all the competition for playing time.

Now a free agent, Brooks can sign for any team, but has to wait 48 hours. There are rumors (per Adrian Wojnarowski of Yahoo! Sports) that the Houston Rockets are interested in his services. He'd provide needed backup to Jeremy Lin and Patrick Beverly at the point. It would be interesting to see him there again, as that's where he had his best year as a professional in 2009-10 when he averaged 19.6 PPG.

Even though Brooks has been bought out, there is still a logjam in the Kings' backcourt. I don't expect Douglas to be there after these last few months because his contract runs out after this season, but I wouldn't be surprised if he and the Maloofs choose the buyout route as an exit strategy as well.

What the Kings need is a defensive-minded player at either guard position. Perhaps, they could trade Fredette for a second-round pick in the next draft? Then they could select a big-and-long defensive prospect and hope for the best, because this team certainly doesn't need more firepower in the backcourt.

To improve upon the worst defensive ranking in the NBA, you have to stop the ball first.

Baby steps.

@Lingberg2000