With Tyreke Evans shifted to shooting guard and established as a committed defender and primary scorer, and Marcus Thornton perceived as a streaky Vinnie Johnson-type sixth man, the major scramble for minutes involves Aaron Brooks, Isaiah Thomas and (Jimmer) Fredette.

Of the three, Fredette – who has made what (Kings coach Keith) Smart termed “a gigantic leap” following an uneven rookie season – is making the hardest push for a larger role. After struggling last season against long, athletic defenders, Fredette dropped about five pounds to enhance his quickness, worked on midrange jumpers and one-handed floaters and added to his repertoire of ball and head fakes – progress reflected in his improved field-goal percentage (38.6 to 45.8).

“There definitely were times last year when I asked myself, ‘What’s wrong? What’s the deal?’ ” Fredette said Thursday after practice. “I think it was a matter of feeling things out, finding how I could score in the league, where and how to get my shots, what to expect. While I’m not shooting any differently (mechanically), I’m shooting with more confidence and not hesitating, so I’m releasing the ball quicker.”

via Ailene Voisin of The Sacramento Bee