How Dennis Schroder Is the Perfect Mentor for This Young Kings Guard
Dennis Schröder and Devin Carter are nearly identical in height—both are listed at roughly six foot one, and that shared stature provides an excellent foundation for mentorship. Schröder, at 172 pounds, is noticeably lighter and quicker, excelling in change-of-pace dribbles and fluid court movement. In contrast, Carter, at approximately 195 pounds, brings a more physical edge to his game. Schröder’s lean frame and lightning-first step allow him to navigate defenses with finesse, while Carter’s stronger build helps him initiate contact and finish through resistance. Carter can learn how Schröder utilizes his speed to gain separation, transition into the lane, and pivot into scoring or playmaking opportunities. Though similar in height, the contrast in their body types and styles allows Carter to stretch his game both physically and mentally.
In terms of production, Schröder’s 2024–25 season split across three teams yielded averages of 13.1 points, 5.4 assists, and 2.6 rebounds over 75 games, 49 of which he started. He’s totaled 842 NBA appearances with a career scoring average of 13.9 points per game and has reached double-digit scoring in every season since his second year in the league. Meanwhile, Carter’s rookie NBA season consisted of 36 games, averaging 3.8 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 1.1 assists in around 11 minutes per outing. The gap in experience is significant. Schröder has run multiple offenses, dealt with countless defensive schemes, and adjusted on the fly in high-pressure environments. Watching Schröder’s control under duress, turnover rate, and decision-making tempo would be instructive for Carter as he seeks to assert himself as a reliable lead guard.
Observing Schröder handle the ball is a masterclass in efficiency. He’s adept at using, rejecting, or snaking through screens, and his pick-and-roll reads are often textbook, knowing when to slip, dive, pass, or attack the hoop. His per-36-minute metrics reveal elite assist totals and pace control at an early stage of his career, where he averaged approximately 5.2 assists per game in just 23 minutes during his 2014–15 breakout year, demonstrating a proper point guard role from the outset. Schröder’s ability to probe the defense, set up teammates, and maintain ball security is critical learning for Carter. As Carter transitions from a high-energy role to extended playmaking responsibilities, mimicking Schröder’s composure in pick-and-roll situations and spacing decisions could unlock new levels to his offensive game.
Beyond just on-court technique, Schröder’s veteran leadership, professionalism, and international pedigree can shape Carter’s routine and mindset. Schröder has competed in the FIBA World Cup and Olympics, earning MVP honors and understanding the mental demands of elite competition. His longevity, spanning 12 NBA seasons and ten different teams, speaks to his adaptability and personal sustainability in a volatile league. Carter, armed with physical tools and defensive tenacity, would benefit from Schröder’s insights on preparation, film study, and how to bounce back from off-games. The mentorship extends to handling off-ball responsibilities, calling out coverages, directing teammates, and stepping up in late-game situations.
For the Sacramento Kings, this mentorship could be pivotal. Suppose the organization envisions Carter as part of their long-term backcourt or even a starting-caliber guard shortly. In that case, he needs to develop his floor general instincts quickly and efficiently. Having a player like Schröder to model his habits after is a rare advantage for a young guard. Schröder provides Carter with a daily blueprint for leading an offense, controlling tempo, and commanding respect on both ends of the floor. If the Kings want Carter to take the next step and grow into a core contributor, letting him learn directly from Schröder could be one of the most valuable moves they make this season.
