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Kings 107, Nets 77: All Beams in Brooklyn

The Kings held the Nets to their lowest point total of the season and kept pace amongst the logjam in the Western Conference's play-in race.
By | 148 Comments | Apr 7, 2024

Apr 7, 2024; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Davion Mitchell (15) drives for a shot against Brooklyn Nets center Day'Ron Sharpe (20) and guard Cam Thomas (24) during the first half at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

Facing both a must-win game for their play-in hopes and a Brooklyn Nets squad with only pride and next season to play for, the Sacramento Kings took advantage for a 107-77 victory in Brooklyn. Domantas Sabonis led the way with 19 points, 20 rebounds, 9 assists, and 2 blocks, while recording his 61st consecutive double-double of the season. De’Aaron Fox had 20 points and 5 rebounds, Keegan Murray added 19 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists, and Sacramento’s defense held the Nets to just 34.9% shooting from the field and a season-low point total.

The Kings started slow but hit the gas midway through the first, ending the period on a 19-4 run in the final 5 minutes. Sacramento got a huge lift from the bench trio of Davion Mitchell, Trey Lyles, and Colby Jones, who all took big advantage of their opportunities and teamed with Sabonis to close out the first quarter and hold a 29-19 advantage they would never relinquish. Lyles finished with 14 points and 10 boards, Mitchell had 12 points on a pair of threes and a gorgeous hesitation drive to the basket, and Jones had 7 points, 4 boards, 4 assists, 3 steals, and 2 blocks in a career high 22 minutes.

Cam Thomas led the Nets with 21 points, while Trendon Watford added 16 points off the bench – but the rest of the Nets, including season-leading-scorer Mikal Bridges (8 points on 3/6 from the field tonight) were kept quiet throughout the contest. The Nets are eliminated from the Eastern Conference’s play-in competition, and started a pair of rookies – big man Noah Clowney and wing Jalen Wilson – alongside Bridges, Thomas, and Dennis Schroder (4 points on 1-12 shooting). While the Nets had no quit in their game on Sunday, they weren’t ever able to get into an offensive rhythm. Even when the Kings started the second half by shooting 0-10 from the field – and didn’t score their first point in the third period until Lyles hit a floater with 6:35 to go – the Nets couldn’t take advantage and pull within more that 14 points.

With the victory, Sacramento now sits at 45-33 on the year and wait to see the outcome of the Los Angeles Lakers v. Minnesota Timberwolves matchup tonight. A loss by the Lakers, who are without LeBron James for the contest, would put the Kings in the 8th seed and 1 game over Los Angeles with 4 contests to go. The Kings are also one game behind the Phoenix Suns and New Orleans Pelicans for the 6th seed, and Sacramento will face both squads at Golden 1 Center this week.

The Kings head to Oklahoma City for a Tuesday matchup with the Thunder, who sit at 53-25 and are comfortably locked into a top-3 seed come playoff time. Sacramento will also face back-to-back contests against the Pelicans and Suns at Golden 1 Center on Thursday and Friday.

 

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148 Comments
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AnybodyButBagley
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April 7, 2024 7:27 pm

Defense is an amazing concept. Crazy when the concept becomes a reality.

Inthestarz
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April 7, 2024 7:29 pm

Good game. Brown doesn’t know when to take the foot off the gas with the starters, either in blowouts for and against. Murray/Sabonis/Fox have no business playing 38/35/34+ in a 30 point game.

Colby/Keegan/Keon really need to round out for us going forward.

We are still amazingly in bounds for 6 given the suns/pelicans remaining schedules

AnybodyButBagley
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April 7, 2024 7:45 pm
Reply to  Inthestarz

The Kings need a miracle and wins to get in the playoffs. Brown isn’t sacrificing a win.

Fox will be ok.

Klam
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Nostradumbass 19
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April 7, 2024 7:34 pm

I mentioned this is the game thread, but I’m liking Colby Jones and we will more than likely be seeing more of him in these final four games of the season.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 7, 2024 7:45 pm
Reply to  Klam

NBA must redo All Star weekend to get Jones in.

Dan Houlder
Dan Houlder
April 7, 2024 7:54 pm

The Kings’ Defensive Rating is now third in the league over the last 15 games.

They’re just getting better and better on that end of the floor.

The Kings had 12 blocks in this game, led by Keegan’s four.

The Nets shot 35% from the field and 23% from three.

Sweet to see the improvement.

Jman1949
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April 7, 2024 8:03 pm
Reply to  Dan Houlder

Currently sitting at 16th after finishing at 24th last season!

Dan Houlder
Dan Houlder
April 7, 2024 8:25 pm
Reply to  Jman1949

What is that strange squiggle after the 18?

AnybodyButBagley
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April 7, 2024 8:29 pm
Reply to  Dan Houlder

Obviously it is just beyond you.

Dan Houlder
Dan Houlder
April 7, 2024 8:32 pm

Yep, that’s what AskJeeves said as well.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 7, 2024 8:35 pm
Reply to  Dan Houlder

Is AskJeeves only showing information for the last fifteen games?

Dan Houlder
Dan Houlder
April 7, 2024 8:36 pm

Even worse–tonight’s game recap is an analysis of 1% of the season.

That must drive you up the wall.

Dan Houlder
Dan Houlder
April 7, 2024 8:42 pm
Reply to  Dan Houlder

So one percent, you can handle. 100 percent, you can handle.

This is progress.

Your understanding over our last 15 posts shows real improvement.

Dan Houlder
Dan Houlder
April 7, 2024 8:52 pm
Reply to  Dan Houlder

Any remark about a single shot is an analysis of less than one percent of a game, which is about one percent of a season.

I think Bryant West owes us all an apology.

RobHessing
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April 8, 2024 8:21 am
Reply to  Dan Houlder

comment image

Jman1949
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April 7, 2024 8:10 pm

TWolves up by 15 at the half over the L****s. Lebron out with “flu-like symptoms”; AD went to the locker room at the end of the first quarter and has not returned. He took the kind of hit to the face that Domas routinely shrugs off.

Dan Houlder
Dan Houlder
April 7, 2024 8:12 pm
Reply to  Jman1949

Reminds me of that meme of Domas holding AD’s hand as if he’s taking his son to school.

Klam
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April 7, 2024 8:12 pm
Reply to  Jman1949

Oooh, things are getting interesting in La La Land.

Jman1949
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April 7, 2024 8:22 pm
Reply to  Klam

Just announced “No AD for the rest of the game”!

Dan Houlder
Dan Houlder
April 7, 2024 8:23 pm
Reply to  Jman1949

They kept trying to find a bigger Band Aid.

Klam
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April 7, 2024 8:34 pm
Reply to  Jman1949

Hmmm, wonder how severe the injury is (whether it’s just for this game or if it’ll affect their remaining games too).

Jman1949
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April 7, 2024 9:15 pm
Reply to  Jman1949

TWolves kept trying to let the L****s back into the game, but Ham has waved the white flag with about 2 minutes left—Colin Castleton inserted into the game.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 7, 2024 8:24 pm
Reply to  Jman1949

It is unfortunate AD is stuck with Lebron

Adamsite
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April 7, 2024 8:30 pm
Reply to  Jman1949

Naz Reid putting on a clinic for the Wolves. He’d be such the perfect front court mate to Domas.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 7, 2024 8:37 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

He and Domas would dominate.

Hopefully the off season moves can help close this gap.

Jack
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April 8, 2024 7:22 am

If not Reid we could go after Tari Eason.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 8, 2024 8:49 am
Reply to  Jack

A legitimate power forward is needed.

Jack
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April 8, 2024 9:24 am

He is one. Go look at stats and especially highlights. He’s legit.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 8, 2024 10:54 am
Reply to  Jack

He definitely is legit. There are many that are better than what we have. We need to go get one.

Jack
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April 8, 2024 12:23 pm

I agree. Monty go get him this summer. Won’t be disappointed.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 8, 2024 2:14 pm
Reply to  Jack

Go get any legitimate power forward.

Jack
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April 8, 2024 7:21 am
Reply to  Adamsite

Without using this with an ego but I have been wanting him for a long time. Just ask Murraytant.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 8, 2024 2:32 pm
Reply to  Jack

Name a person who has held a basketball that you have not thought was a good trade?

I love your willingness to change for the better.

Adamsite
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April 7, 2024 8:34 pm

I love Keegan. He embraces the schtick.

Dan Houlder
Dan Houlder
April 7, 2024 9:13 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

The only sense of humor for a man of his demeanor is deadpan.

UpgradedToQuestionable
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April 7, 2024 8:40 pm

comment image&ct=g
Zombie dance for the Nets!

The score is more impressive than the win, but that was a solid game all around.

Wild but active Colby Jones, and heady support by Davion and Trey.

Domas continues to Beast.

It’s games like this that have you forget Malik Monk and Kevin Huerter.

The referee-ing was haphazard and awful, IMO. Fortunately, it made no difference.

Next.

rockbottom
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April 7, 2024 8:42 pm

Kings did what was called for – beat up a tired thin bad team . Great race in the West and very pleased Kings playing pressure games in April,.

UpgradedToQuestionable
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April 7, 2024 8:47 pm
Reply to  rockbottom

sure as spit beats looking at mock drafts in January

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April 8, 2024 1:01 pm

One of those wins that keeps hope alive. Holding any team to 77 points at any time in the season is pretty remarkable. Winning by 30? Yes, more of that.

At the same time – the bane of this season’s existence is the consistent inconsistency. Head into Oklahoma and sweep some wind down those plains! Kings hold a 2-1 head to head advantage, each team winning on their home court.

Jman1949
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April 8, 2024 1:25 pm

Has anyone seen any updates on the availability of SGA and Jalen Williams. Both have been out for several games.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 7, 2024 8:45 pm

Keegan is having fun whether he lets anyone see it or not.

Glad to have him.

Last edited 6 months ago by AnybodyButBagley
Dan Houlder
Dan Houlder
April 7, 2024 11:01 pm

The NBA must re-do the All-Star game and put Keegan in.

Is anyone allowed to have an opinion different from yours?

Who’s complaining?

Etc.

Jack
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April 8, 2024 7:25 am

He was after he made that 3 from the corner. Before that he was frustrated. After that he was having fun.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 8, 2024 8:50 am
Reply to  Jack

Good to see his work pay off.

ForKingsandCountry
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April 7, 2024 8:55 pm

Had to have that win so good job getting it done. The Kings didn’t play well but the Nets are AWFUL. Holy cow. The number of missed layups and wide open shots was stunning. Whatever Cam Thomas is doing is performance art. I’m not sure he realizes he has teammates. Our defense was solid but man that’s a bad team they beat.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 7, 2024 8:57 pm

They are more KaNGz than the KAnGz.

Last edited 6 months ago by AnybodyButBagley
Mike120
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April 7, 2024 9:05 pm

6 is in reach. Might have to win out to get it.

Dan Houlder
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April 7, 2024 9:17 pm
Reply to  Mike120

I wonder if running the table automatically means they have the 6th seed, considering the upcoming games against the Pels and the Suns.

Klam
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April 7, 2024 9:19 pm
Reply to  Dan Houlder

We would need to win against Phoenix to get the tiebreaker. New Orleans unfortunately has the tiebreaker on us, so we would need them to have one more loss than us at the end of the season if we wanted to pass them.

Dan Houlder
Dan Houlder
April 7, 2024 9:19 pm
Reply to  Klam

Well, that was fast. Thanks.

Klam
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April 7, 2024 9:20 pm
Reply to  Dan Houlder

Also, we’re waiting to see if SGA will be playing against us on Tuesday. If he’s out that game, that’ll be something the Kings need to take advantage of to steal one.

Jman1949
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April 7, 2024 10:03 pm
Reply to  Klam

It would help if Kawhi can play in both games of the b2b coming up between the Suns and Clippers.

Jman1949
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April 8, 2024 3:42 pm
Reply to  Jman1949

+1 Here’s why Kawhi’s return could really help us:

From NBA.com

No team has been more efficient against a single opponent than the Clippers have been against the Suns, with LA having scored 140.1 points per 100 possessions as it won two meetings in early January. 

Jack
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April 8, 2024 7:29 am
Reply to  Dan Houlder

Somebody do the math. I’m interested.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 8, 2024 8:52 am
Reply to  Jack

Kings win out.

Phoenix and Pels lose them all.

We are good in that scenario.

aplumley
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April 8, 2024 12:23 pm
Reply to  Dan Houlder

This is what I think. There are four potential cases. They end up ahead of the Pels and Suns and they are in. They end up tied with both the Pels and Suns and they are in because of a better conference record. They end up tied with the Suns and ahead of the Pels and they are in because they hold the tiebreaker with the Suns. They end up tied with the Pels, but ahead of the Suns and they are in the play-in because they lose the tiebreaker with the Pels.

Klam
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April 7, 2024 9:17 pm

Lakers Looooooooooooooose.

DutchKingsFanInUK
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April 7, 2024 10:42 pm

Colby Jones really made an impact defensively, which was nice to see.

Might have been situational, but it seems like Vezenkov has fallen out of the rotation again. I don’t really get why, as he injects a bit of randomness (cuts, off-ball screens) to the second unit.

RikSmits
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April 8, 2024 1:42 am

Agreed. I would argue that Sasha never got a real chance at finding a role in the rotation, even when taking into account the injury.

I of course don’t see everything beyond the games and press conferences, but from what I see some of the coaching staff’s decisions come over to me as a bit disjointed, searching, even panicky.

We didn’t know at the start of the season that the defense needed to be addressed seriously?

We still have a fighting chance, and I am happy with that, but I hope it won’t be too little, too late.

Malrock
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April 8, 2024 4:39 am
Reply to  RikSmits

You say that like Vez has only had a single injury, but I think the man has had more injuries than he has had healthy playing time.

RikSmits
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April 8, 2024 4:44 am
Reply to  Malrock

I could be wrong but I think he just had the right ankle sprain, with a long recovery. Before that, I believe he was in and out of the rotation by coach’s decision.

9sac8
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April 8, 2024 7:18 am
Reply to  Malrock

I dont think Sasha’s ailments have to do with his physical injuries. Of course he may have had a bad sprain, but he looks shook out there. He doesn’t look confident at all. He’ll jack a few 3s from time to time. Any other time, it looks like he’s trying to get the ball out of his hands ASAP.

Sometimes it’s the coaching. Sometimes it’s the player. I think it’s a bit of both in this case.

Last edited 6 months ago by 9sac8
Jack
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April 8, 2024 7:33 am
Reply to  9sac8

I agree. Sasha doesn’t look confident out there more with a scrowl on his face. Hope I’m wrong.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 8, 2024 8:56 am
Reply to  Jack

I think Sasha found the NBA a tad more difficult than what he has ever seen before.

FlorenceLunderburke
April 8, 2024 11:45 am

i think that is often the assumption but Euroliga is legit. They play much harder defense, run much more organized and systematic offenses. I imagine he (esp as a Euroliga MVP) found it much harder over here with defensive sets against him. Listen to interviews with Luka and Giannis about competition in Europe. I have been watching more of it and having to let of my own biases as well.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 8, 2024 2:19 pm

It definitely is good basketball.

I think the surprise for guys like Sasha is the athleticism and size of every player in the NBA. For NBA scouts Sasha is easy to shut down as well. In Euroliga Sasha has a steady game. In the NBA Sasha needs some alternatives to his game.

FlorenceLunderburke
April 9, 2024 5:21 am

The NBA is more athletic but I think defensively esp in the regular season Europe is far more hardcore. Both individual defense and team defense are played more intensively, with full court press a rather standard feature.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 9, 2024 9:03 am

That is a new reality for me. Most Euro players have never played defense.

Maybe that has changed?

VAking
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April 8, 2024 4:40 am
Reply to  RikSmits

Sasha’s strengths imo are shooting the catch-and-shoot 3 and moving without the ball. This team cuts to create space not to go to the basket. They don’t play a two-man game near the key. They hunt for 3s. That’s it. Sasha just sits in the corner and is expected to make the 1-2 3point shots he gets.

RikSmits
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April 8, 2024 4:49 am
Reply to  VAking

This team cuts to create space not to go to the basket.

Maybe I misunderstand you, but I don’t think that’s true.

You won’t create much space if your cuts don’t even create a threat towards scoring inside.

Jack
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April 8, 2024 7:40 am
Reply to  RikSmits

IMO one of the problems is the other team leaves Sabonis alone on the perimeter and packs the paint leaving good cuts impossible. Next year one of the most important part of Sabonis’s game is to make those shots from around the free throw line. If he can do that it would open up the middle for good cuts. IMO he can do this. Go to work Sabonis. He has good shot mechanics.

Amonk81
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April 8, 2024 11:30 am
Reply to  Jack

Next year? He shoulda fucking fixed that this year. Actually, I think he got better but this is the Kings issue.

Last year the knew they needed improvements and didn’t do shot.

Tankathon
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April 8, 2024 3:45 pm
Reply to  Amonk81

Totally agree, I feel like this year’s halfcourt offense was clunky because the DHO was taken away. Just people running around Sabonis while his man sagged all the way down. He needs to absolutely live and die by that jumper if we want to win any playoff games. I will say Sabonis’s defense has improved – didn’t feel like he fouled as much.

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April 8, 2024 4:38 pm
Reply to  Tankathon

More mid range and I find Browns approach a bit idiotic-IE-adjusting 1/2 court O to fit players.

Like Fox- he should be Kawaih like shooting lots of mod range cause he’s great at that-has been. Not jacking up only 3s.

I was hoping these changes would be made this year, but it doesn’t look like that’s happened. So I do think Sabonis has gotten a little better at the mid range.

Jack
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April 8, 2024 4:56 pm
Reply to  Tankathon

It really isn’t a jump shot but rather a set shoot. Not trying to be picky but that is what it is. And yes he isn’t fouling so much as the beginning of the year. No more shoving in the back.

Tankathon
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April 9, 2024 12:05 am
Reply to  Jack

He needs to spend some time with Brad Miller. That thing was automatic for years

Amonk81
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April 8, 2024 11:32 am
Reply to  RikSmits

I think VAking is right. The O-particularly 1/2 court regressed. There is no hitting the cutter near the hoop hardly at all. No 2 man game PNR unless Monk is there.

All they do now is drive and kick. Three or drive and repeat. A tad of DHO. It’s not good.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 8, 2024 8:54 am
Reply to  RikSmits

I think Sasha has injuries that are meant to keep him off of the floor until he learns how to play.

If he is listed as injured it creates opportunities to get other players to fill his spot on the roster.

Not the first time someone has been mysteriously injured in the NBA.

DutchKingsFanInUK
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April 8, 2024 10:08 am
Reply to  RikSmits

I would argue the same.

eddie41
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April 8, 2024 7:43 am

In a 9-man rotation, it’s not surprising. However, if HB is not producing or another forward is out for whatever reason, I agree that Sasha can be a game changer. give him the green light and see if he gets hot. He’s capable of putting up 20+ points off the bench like TD did a few times.

AmateurNerd
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April 8, 2024 1:52 pm

The Kings have had too many cooks in the kitchen to allow Vez, and a couple others, to grow comfortable in a defined role, and it’s hurt the team. Possibly unpopular opinion, but losing Huerter was addition by subtraction. Moving Keon in the starting lineup opened up space in the 2nd unit, especially the crowded backcourt. The Kings need fewer “solid/good/ok” players with overlapping positions and skill sets. A priority this summer should be replacing some of the team’s breadth (of decent/ok players) with depth. Huerter, Duarte, Vez, Barnes should all be heavily shopped in packages (w/ picks) to try to make this happen. And as much as we love Monk, we should not overpay to keep him.

9sac8
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April 8, 2024 7:11 am

1-0

4 more to go. If we can perhaps go 4-0 the reminder of the schedule, I think we get out of the first round. It sounds delusional, but not impossible.

Adamsite
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April 8, 2024 7:52 am

Can someone one who is much better with numbers than myself do a comparison of the Kings defense prior to Huerter getting injured, then to the window before Monk went down, and then Ellis and Davion getting the lion’s share of the vacated minutes?

I’ve got a funny feeling there will be a stark contrast in how the Kings are playing defense and it may lead to some around here to seriously question keeping Huerter and/or paying Monk good money this summer. It also seems to me that even in the recent losses, the defense has dramatically improved.

HongKongKingsFan
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April 8, 2024 8:10 am
Reply to  Adamsite

All I can see is Monte may see Keon and Jones can play, and Monte will not pay big money to keep Monk…..

Monte may go other direction, to continue to strengthen the defense….adding more defensive player…(maybe find a way to land Mikal Bridge)….

p.s. Really surprised Cobly was rewarded for so many minutes….and he just played a A game…in my opinion.

Jack
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April 8, 2024 9:47 am

OK a little discussion. If it were me instead of Bridges I would go after Cam Johnson and play him at the SG position. He has the skill sets to do this. Great 3 point shooter and plays really good team defense. Doesn’t rebound well so use him where is is most effective. Johnson won’t cost you 3 firsts but two and maybe a second or two. Save that other 1 first and go get Tari Eason to play the 4. Great upside. Can really rebound and protect the weakside rim. Shoots the 3 at 40% and stretchs the floor. Plays really good defense both one on one and team. Can really run with the fast break. And he is young and hasn’t even reached his potential yet.

Maximus
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April 8, 2024 10:39 am
Reply to  Jack

Eason is almost impossible to get. The Rockets is an up and coming team and Eason is on a rookie contract. The only way they trade him is in a package for a legit star. I think you should give up on the Eason idea.

Cam Johnson is nice but man we need good rebounders.

Jack
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April 8, 2024 2:09 pm
Reply to  Maximus

Not impossible. Doesn’t even start. This is your rebounder. Match the trade value and throw in a first and second.

Adamsite
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April 8, 2024 4:14 pm
Reply to  Maximus

I agree. Houston has no incentive to move him and his rookie deal. They only move him for legitimate talent and/or assets, which the Kings really don’t have.

Jalen Smith, on the other hand, is now odd man out in Indy with Pascal coming to town and he’ll very likely opt out of his $5M deal to hit free agency. I’d offer him as much of the MLE as it takes to get him to come to Sac. He could potentially start next to Sabonis and play the backup 5 spot. He’d fill a lot of needs without the Kings giving up assets.

Obi Toppin could be another under the radar RFA that Indy may not match since they are going to spend big on Pascal.

One of those guys will definitely be available.

Maximus
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April 8, 2024 4:32 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

Yeah, they would be nice for a portion of the MLE. But I don’t think they can replace Barnes as a starting forward. It would be nice if they could. I think we will have to trade for one. Maybe Kuzma is a good idea. His shot selection would not be a problem when Keon Ellis is your starting SG.

Jack
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April 8, 2024 5:04 pm
Reply to  Maximus

Not to diagree all the time but Kuzma will steal Murray’s game time and he said in no uncertain terms he doesn’t want to come to Sacramento.

Jack
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April 8, 2024 5:01 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

I’d go for Jalen Smith. I really like him too. Young good rebounder and can protect the rim. Put him at the 4 and let Murray play the 3 where IMO that’s where he belongs. Gives him much more freedom.

Jack
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April 8, 2024 5:02 pm
Reply to  Jack

PS What about Patrick Williams. He will be a FA?

9sac8
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April 8, 2024 2:50 pm
Reply to  Jack

I see you Jack, but I have to raise you one on the hypotheticals. I’d play Cam at the 3 and leave Keegan at the 4. This is ONLY if Keegan gets some grit and uses that 6’8 frame correctly. I believe Cam 6’7 or 6’8 and is a decent rebounder as well. Not sure if Keegan will ever have that mentality, but dammit it would be a sight to see with Cam and Keegan raining 3s all game.

Otherwise, as everyone is stated, we need a legit PF and he needs to be a dawg. I’ve seen the highlights of Eason, dude is serious out there.

Last edited 6 months ago by 9sac8
Jack
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April 8, 2024 5:10 pm
Reply to  9sac8

Adamsite mentioned Jalen Smith. He to would be a great addition but at the PF and backup center. On Keegan playing the 3 he would have a lot more freedom on offense instead of spending time in the corner. He’s starting to attack the basket and even pulling up for short 2 or floater. And this is just his second year. With his defense he has improved 100% over his first year. IMO he isn’t done yet.

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April 8, 2024 9:03 am
Reply to  Adamsite

would be good to see those stats. might have to adjust them due to league-wide trends after the all star break.

Jack
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April 8, 2024 9:37 am
Reply to  Adamsite

What you said makes for further discussion. IMO with Huerter out especially the defense with Ellis and Mitchell has really improved. With Monk out our offense has dropped but again Monk doesn’t play very good defense.IMO to let Monk go is a two edged sword. Either offense or defense although Monk does have a lot more than either. We all know what he brings to the table. Some hard decisions for Monty as well as some other players on the roster. Needs more discussion but IMO later after the season.

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April 8, 2024 9:59 am
Reply to  Jack

For me it just comes down to team performance and value of contract.

If the Kings perform better in the win/loss column, but score less points, then fine. It could very well be that the team is better off without Monk’s offensive skills and it just means more shots for guys like Keegan, Keon and Davion, who happen to also play better defense.

Now couple that idea with the cost it may take to re-sign Monk and the scales my tip. If Monte goes all in on Monk, the Kings are looking at a total commitment to a Fox, Sabonis, Monk, Keegan core going forward. Does that core make you a contender, or should the resources be reallocated elsewhere?

Right now Keon and Jones are locked up on the cheap and my be worthy of rotational minutes next season, which may make Monk expendable and the money earmarked for him freed up to be spent on other rotational pieces. Kings still need a defensive wing and a backup center.

Monte is going to have a tough decision to make, but these last few games and play-in tournament may help him make up his mind.

OLDBHOY
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April 8, 2024 10:15 am
Reply to  Adamsite

By the eyeball test, the defense since minus Huerter plus Ellis/Mitchell is WAY better, not even close. Team wise putting much more effort and energy into defense, I think will naturally hurt your offense a bit, the shooting percentages will be lower. I think we are seeing this with Fox specifically, he is missing more of his normal gimmes than usual.

I am more than fine with this trade off, it is the tried and true winning recipe and sustainable in the playoffs.

I like Monk a lot. He brings a chaotic, frenetic energy that is mostly a good thing but sometimes not, he definitely walks that line. Before Monk was hurt, I thought they had to keep him despite cost. Since seeing the potential of Ellis, Mitchell, Edwards and Jones I think now I would not overpay to keep Monk. The team plays much more disciplined without Monk.

Also, I think Lyles should be getting more and more of Barnes minutes.

Jack
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April 8, 2024 2:21 pm
Reply to  OLDBHOY

I firmly agree with all the above. If your defense can keep teams around or near 110 npoints with the rest offense you should win a lot of games.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 8, 2024 2:27 pm
Reply to  Jack

Can we try for 100?

Jack
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April 8, 2024 5:13 pm

Sure why not.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 8, 2024 7:39 pm
Reply to  Jack

I think that gets us another ten wins.

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April 8, 2024 11:23 am
Reply to  Adamsite

I think it will be hard to hold on to Monk, even apart from this discussion.

I am a big fan of defense, but i am also apprehensive of a roster where only Fox is a guy who can consistently create his own shot. That is the big issue with Domas, and I am still not convinced that Keegan will be such a guy.

When defenses tighten up and refs swallow their whistles, you need more than one guy who can create for himself. With all his issues, Monk is such a guy.

OLDBHOY
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April 8, 2024 12:41 pm
Reply to  RikSmits

Well said, I agree.

I want them to keep Monk but I’m just not convinced he is worth overpaying for. I’m starting to think Keegan will be able to create his own shot consistently given some more experience. Love his motor but I doubt Domas will ever develop that skill.

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April 8, 2024 12:42 pm
Reply to  RikSmits

What gives me hope, in terms of Keegan, is he has ticked up his FGA, PPG, and assists since Monk went down. He, Keon, and Davion have increased their production, albeit not completely filling the offensive hole with the absence of Monk, but some of it. The real difference is the defense. Call it addition by subtraction, or a zero sum change, but when lack of scoring comes at the cost of better defense, I take defense everyday of the week.

OLDBHOY
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April 8, 2024 1:37 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

What gives me hope is Keegan is starting to score consistently at all three levels. This year he has really improved his finishing at the rim, he already has a nice mid range game and a 3 point shot.

I think what he needs more than anything is more touches. He still vanishes for big stretches of games too often.

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April 8, 2024 2:11 pm
Reply to  OLDBHOY

Keegan single-handedly pulled the Kings out of their shooting slump in the 3rd yesterday by just forcing the issue and willing his shots into the basket. It was great, and he needs to do that more. (On that note, he needs to be given the responsibility to do it.)

Jack
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April 8, 2024 2:39 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

Now your on the right track.As a coach we worked on offense but also spent a lot of time tuning our defense. If you score 10 and keep your player under that who wins? I have watched Davion and to some degree Ellis shut down big named players or at least keeping them under their averages. I also have watched Murray as a defensive player and am really impressed. Murray’s defensive energy has cost some lower stats on offense but that will take care of itself in the future. IMO Murray is some kind of player and as he continues to develop for him the skies the limit.

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April 8, 2024 11:38 am
Reply to  Adamsite

When they are bricking 3s or just being lazy with the ball it’s so freaking boring to watch, sometimes the 3 starts to drop and then it’s fine.. Or Monk comes in and everyone wakes the f up. Does this energy lead us to somewhere super deep coming years? Or could we win with boring Spurs type championship? 😀

Last edited 6 months ago by TerzoM
Jack
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April 8, 2024 2:14 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

I agree. IMO I don’t want just the same core of players as we now have. Changes need to be made.

Jack
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April 8, 2024 2:17 pm
Reply to  Jack

PS I agree we need a defensive PF and a SG. I am on the fence about a backup center. Len has done a good job with this years backup. Maybe could do better.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 8, 2024 2:26 pm
Reply to  Jack

Len is fine if we get a real power forward.

Adamsite
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April 8, 2024 2:40 pm
Reply to  Jack

Len is a UFA. There are currently no backup bigs, other than Lyles, under contract for next season.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 8, 2024 2:26 pm
Reply to  Jack

A basic level of defensive ability and a desire to stop another team at all positions.

A roster of guys that want to score 40 to get the next deal is not going to go far.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 8, 2024 2:24 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

A core that includes a defensively capable guard and power forward in addition to Sabonis will do something next season.

Fox won’t play D and Davion won’t score. They don’t off set each other. Time to stop trying.

Maximus
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April 8, 2024 4:56 pm

You know if you want to contend for a championship, you have to surround Sabonis with 2 guys that are actually better than Sabonis. That is very tough to do considering the team’s assets and salary. Really the only shot is for Keegan Murray to evolve into one guy or he will be traded for one.

Trading Fox does not get you back equal talent. Which guy do you want to trade Fox for and would that guy’s team be willing to accept a trade?

AnybodyButBagley
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April 8, 2024 7:51 pm
Reply to  Maximus

Sabonis with two other true threats is a great team.

Fox is definitely not going to get the same in return. I wish it was Haliburton that stayed but nobody was willing to give us anything for Fox.

Sabonis with Kyrie would be solid.

Keegan can definitely be somebody in this league. I think this team truly changes when Fox goes and another free agent can come in.

When and how? I don’t know?

Like your thoughts and it is a tough question. I don’t think Fox can be traded at this point…meaning we don’t get anything back for him.

Last edited 6 months ago by AnybodyButBagley
Maximus
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April 8, 2024 11:10 pm

I think this team truly changes when Fox goes and another free agent can come in.

Lol yeah for sure. But you would not know if it would for better or worse. More than likely would be worse.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 9, 2024 1:05 am
Reply to  Maximus

Might be worse but we have already seen the ceiling with Fox.

Hanging on to average out of fear isn’t what wins.

Fox is great but in my opinion he has peaked and this team needs something different.

Maybe different is Fox with another player that leads and Fox can be the quick scoring threat he naturally is.

Jack
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April 8, 2024 5:17 pm

I don’t know what you have been watching but our starting point guard has really stepped up defensively. And Davion in the last few games has scored. I’m impresses with both.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 8, 2024 7:55 pm
Reply to  Jack

I have been watching. There have been sporadic moments of this for three years now. We need it consistently. For Fox it is a decision to play defense.

Not sure Davion can consistently score?

Amonk81
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April 8, 2024 11:35 am
Reply to  Adamsite

Agree on Hierter but problem
woth losing Monk is he’s one of the few players on the tram who does the 1/2 court O-run the show-drive and dish or shoot 3s.

End of games they sorely miss him.

Jman1949
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April 8, 2024 1:11 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

I applied some filters on the NBA stats site to show our ORtg, DRtg, and NetRtg for the following:

All games before Huerter’s injury
116.8 / 115.8 / 1.0

Games since Huerter’s injury
113.0 / 107.8 / 5.2

Games between Huerter’s and Monk’s injuries
111.3 / 108.8 / 2.5

All games before Monk’s injury
116.6 / 115.0 / 1.6

Games since Monk’s injury
114.7 / 106.7 / 8.0

Some of these are very small sample sizes with the 5-game sample since Monk’s injury particularly skewed by last night’s result.

Last edited 6 months ago by Jman1949
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April 8, 2024 2:39 pm
Reply to  Jman1949

Thank you! I was starting to do the same thing. I included the Dallas game, since he played just 1 minute, to give it a 6 game sample size.

I’m eager to see how the next 4 games go, because that will make it 10 games and, IMO, is worthy of a trend.

All this would indicate the Kings a slightly worse offensively, but much, much better defensive team with an excellent NetRtg. Basically, if things hold up, this version of the Kings is better than the version with Huerter and Monk.

Jack
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April 8, 2024 2:42 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

Offense wins games. Defense wins championships.

AnybodyButBagley
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April 8, 2024 2:42 pm
Reply to  Jack

Crazy how it works.

Jman1949
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April 8, 2024 3:32 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

I actually included the Dallas game in the post-Monk stats—just forgot that’s what I did when I made the comment. D’oh!

Dan Houlder
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April 8, 2024 5:11 pm
Reply to  Jman1949

That’s really interesting. Helps confirm the eye test that a lot of us experienced.

Greg
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April 8, 2024 10:22 am

I just went through and nuked a portion of this comment section. Y’all need to figure out how to be civil and stop trolling and being assholes to each other (you know who you are), or you’ll end up on timeout.

lazlohollyfeld
April 8, 2024 11:10 am
Reply to  Greg

Thank you. Those two should get married and take their spat outside of this forum.

RobHessing
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April 8, 2024 11:20 am
Reply to  Greg

Greg at TKH HQ:
comment image

TerzoM
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April 8, 2024 11:24 am
Reply to  RobHessing

I don’t recall such a passionate ending to regular season.
comment image
Sure beats the 3-stooges combo of Vivek-Vlade-Walton years

RobHessing
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April 8, 2024 11:34 am
Reply to  TerzoM

It’s a mad world, T. A mad, mad, mad, mad world.

UpgradedToQuestionable
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April 8, 2024 12:51 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

Milton Berle and Terry Thomas? What about Shake Milton and Cam Thomas?

Klam
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April 8, 2024 12:53 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

But what goes on at HQ when no one is looking?
comment image

eddie41
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April 8, 2024 12:06 pm
Reply to  Greg

how about a break-out room.

9sac8
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April 8, 2024 3:00 pm
Reply to  Greg

That’s some Boss shyt. ????

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April 8, 2024 3:54 pm
Reply to  Greg

Thank you. I was tempted to suggest they get a hotel room.

Dan Houlder
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April 8, 2024 3:59 pm
Reply to  Greg

I apologize for my part in that conversation.

Jack
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April 8, 2024 7:14 pm
Reply to  Dan Houlder

Your apology just raised my opinion of you from a low 2 to a high 8.
Let’s start talking Kings basketball.

Mike120
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April 8, 2024 3:52 pm

Last two games Kings D gave up an average of 89 points. I bet it’s been since the 90’s that that has happened.

(I’m not about to do a last 15 game recap!)

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