by Charlie O. Mallonee

According to multiple sources, Kings forward Rudy Gay has agreed to a three year, $40 million contract that will keep him with Sacramento through the 2017-18 season. Bill Herenda of Comcast SportsNet California reports that he has confirmed the transaction.

Gay, who is in the final year of his contract, has been one of the major pieces in the Kings plan to build a winning franchise. Gay along with center DeMarcus Cousins are the foundation of the Kings plan to become a playoff contender in the NBA West.

Gay is currently averaging 22.5 points per game and shooting 44.8 percent from the field. He is shooting 34.5 percent from 3-point land and 88 percent from the free throw line. Gay is grabbing an average of 6.8 rebounds per game.

Kings Head Coach Michael Malone frequently emphasizes Gay’s importance to the team and its future development.

The contract would have Gay in a Kings uniform when the new downtown arena opens in 2016. The contract reportedly contains a player opt-out clause before the 2017-18 season. The NBA players union contract expires after the 2016-17 season and the salary cap is expected to significantly larger in next agreement between the league and the players union.

Gay has been the target of accusations of under performing when he played in Toronto and Memphis. He seems to be thriving in Sacramento under the direction of coach Michael Malone. Gay has also become a fan favorite in Sacramento.