Dalembert a key for Kings, but what about next season?

It took Samuel Dalembert time to adjust to his role with the Kings, and the muscle strain in his left leg didn't make the transition any easier.

It also took some time for Dalembert, after years as a starting center, to work his way off the Kings' bench.

Now a regular starter for the Kings, Dalembert is the defensive anchor that the team was looking for when he was acquired last June.

Plus, he's providing some unexpected offense.

The Kings made it clear how they feel about Dalembert when they elected not to deal the nine-year veteran before February's deadline. There was interest from teams looking for a veteran big man or looking for financial relief after the season since Dalembert is in the last year of his contract.

It was quite a change for Dalembert, who wasn't sure where he fit in earlier this season. He now speaks about the Kings needing to improve and play good basketball as the season winds down, despite their 17-52 record, but he's understandably noncommittal about next season.

"I just want to let everything play out," Dalembert said. "See what's happening and see what's going on. You never know what's going to happen."

A possible NBA lockout is one issue, and there's also the uncertainty of where the Kings will play next season since ownership is negotiating to move to Anaheim.

"I try to do my part and let the business side happen," Dalembert said. "We'll see."

Doing his part has meant helping on both ends of the court. In his last six games, Dalembert is averaging 16.7 points and 11.8 rebounds. For the season, he averages 7.6 points and 7.5 rebounds.