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Sacramento’s blueprint to becoming one of the league’s best offenses

Mike Brown and the Kings have settled into a rhythm and rode their stellar offense to win six of their last eight.
By | 107 Comments | Nov 14, 2022

Nov 13, 2022; Sacramento, California, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Davion Mitchell (15) and guard De'Aaron Fox (5) celebrate after defeating the Golden State Warriors at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports

The Sacramento Kings might be one of the best offenses in the NBA this season. After losing their first four games, Coach Mike Brown and the Kings have settled into a rhythm and won six of their last eight with the most recent victory coming against the Golden State Warriors on Sunday night.

Coach Brown has implemented five offensive staples since taking over as head coach. They are pace, spacing, playing “point five” basketball, paint touches, and ball reversals. “Point Five” basketball means making decisions in point five seconds to emphasize ball movement and discourage over-dribbling.

Figuring out which players would work best in that system took some time, but they’ve settled into a nine or ten-man rotation and found success since.

“I do feel like I’m starting to know the team better,” Coach Brown said following their 127-120 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers. “They’re starting to know me better. Starting to know each other better… if we take care of the things we can control… the wins and losses is going to take care of itself ‘cause this group is really good together.”

It’s clearly been working. The Kings currently rank tied for 5th in offensive rating (114.4) and have scored 120 points or more in five of their first eleven games. They aim to shoot upwards of 40 three-pointers each night and are currently averaging 39.3 per game which is the sixth most in the NBA. Combine that with being seventh in three-point percentage at 37.1 percent and it’s easy to see how De’Aaron Fox has more space to work with than ever before.

Excluding the Charlotte game where Fox left after nine minutes with a knee bruise, the 24-year-old guard is averaging 27.3 points and 6.5 assists per game while shooting 54.9 percent from the field, 37.3 percent from three, and 82.0 percent from the free-throw line.

Fox fine-tuned his jumper throughout the course of this offseason with assistant coach Luke Loucks and the results speak for themselves. Two-time MVP Nikola Jokic and Zion Williamson are the only two players averaging 20+ points with a higher field-goal percentage than Fox.

He’s been Sacramento’s closer early this season with a game-winning buzzer-beater in Orlando, a 10-point and four-assist fourth quarter in Los Angeles, and most recently an 11-point closing quarter on 5/6 shooting against the Warriors.

Sacramento’s 10th-ranked pace highlights Fox’s elite speed, but it’s the new spacing that has really allowed him to unlock his game. Defenders are forced to think twice about helping off Sacramento’s various sharpshooters.

Kevin Huerter is knocking down a ridiculous 51.1 percent of his 7.3 three-point attempts per game. That is the highest percentage of anyone attempting five triples or more on a nightly basis. 

Keegan Murray shot 39.8 percent from three in college and has managed to convert 36.1 percent of his 6.1 attempts to start his NBA career. 

Malik Monk is adding his usual stellar shooting with 37.1 percent on 5.6 threes per game. 

Harrison Barnes is struggling this season, 21.6 percent on 3.4 three-point attempts per game, but he’s known and respected from distance as a career 37.7 percent shooter from range.

All of those players are a threat to score 20 points on any given night. The ball movement that Sacramento plays brings energy to all five players on the floor. As Kevin Huerter said in pre-season, the ball is power.

“The ball is power. The ball is energy. You move the ball, you move the energy around. Guys are going to like playing with each other and it helps build chemistry pretty fast,” Huerter said. “If you’re a team that one or two guys are dominating the ball you don’t build chemistry very fast.”

Averaging the fifth most passes per game (308.5) has played a crucial part in each individual player buying in. There are hardly any specific plays being called.

Instead, they’ve played more of a free-flowing offense that is therefore impossible to scout against. Sacramento has their star talents that can get a bucket at any point, but those possessions are the outliers.

While Fox has been putting up impressive scoring totals, he’s picking his moments and has clear trust in his teammates. As for Sacramento other’s star, Domantas Sabonis is the epitome of unselfishness with his crushing screens, elite rebounding, and timely pinpoint passing that is essential to the Kings’ offensive success.

Sabonis is the King of “point five” basketball. His decision-making, extreme understanding of the game, and skillset enables everyone around him.

“It’s a lot of fun (playing with Sabonis),” Hurter said. “At times it’s pretty easy. Just coming off a two-man game, reading his defender. He sets really good screens. I’m able to come off and get in the paint pretty easy.”

The beautiful thing about Sacramento’s aforementioned shooters is that they are all extremely smart players who recognize the proper times to cut and move off-ball. Barnes, Murray, and Huerter have the size to finish around bigs around the rim. Fox and Monk are bouncy and crafty enough to find ways to finish.

As the players around him have become more consistent and comfortable, Sabonis began to find his own opportunities within the flow of the offense as well with no better example than Sacramento’s latest win over the Warriors.

Sabonis ended the night with 26 points, 22 rebounds, and eight assists on 10/17 shooting. It’s the fifth time in the last six games that Sabonis has had 20 or more points.

“Teammates did a great job of finding me, looking for me, and my job is to finish,” Sabonis said postgame. Just another day at the office for the two-time All-Star. The fact that his spectacular night felt somewhat casual is a credit to his consistent impact on the game.

They have trustworthy, efficient engines in Fox and Sabonis. Some excellent shooters and underrated playmakers in Huerter and Monk. Intelligent wings/forwards who can space the floor in Barnes and Murray. Two capable backups to relive their stars in Davion Mitchell and Chimezie Metu along with some Trey Lyles and/or Terence Davis sprinkled in.

Sacramento’s defense, currently ranked 26th in defensive rating, is still a work in progress. But, with enough communication and creativity, they can do just enough to get by on the back of what could become one of the NBA’s best offenses. Something is brewing in Sacramento for the first time in a while.

They appear to be buying into what Mike Brown is selling and making a profit in the process. The Brooklyn Nets are headed into Golden 1 Center this coming Wednesday for Sacramento’s only TNT game of the season with the Kings sporting a three-game win streak.

“I’m so excited for those guys because of the work that they’ve put in and the connectivity that that group has,” Coach Brown said. “To be able to get a win, this early in the year, over the Champions is big… it’s extremely big to help with the belief and a team that truly believes is a dangerous, dangerous frickin’ team.” 

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1951
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November 14, 2022 8:10 am

One word:

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jay14bay
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November 14, 2022 8:19 am

I guess this is the part where I get very, very, cautiously optimistic. Uncharted territory for the regular season.

Last edited 1 year ago by jay14bay
Adamsite
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Nostradumbass 14
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Nostradumbass 14
November 14, 2022 4:44 pm
Reply to  jay14bay

Same.

Hippity_Hop_Barbershop
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November 14, 2022 8:37 am

I’m walking on sunshine.

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TerzoM
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November 14, 2022 10:39 am

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Follow the Sign

Kosta
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November 14, 2022 11:06 am
Reply to  TerzoM

We can’t let this dude come into our arena and make a joke out of us

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RikSmits
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November 14, 2022 11:09 am
Reply to  Kosta

But he’s the Joker?!

TerzoM
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November 14, 2022 11:24 am
Reply to  RikSmits

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And now that the Fox/Ox is in bloom.
A light hits your bum
On a 3-point-play

Last edited 1 year ago by TerzoM
Kosta
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November 14, 2022 4:36 pm
Reply to  TerzoM

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Hippity_Hop_Barbershop
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November 15, 2022 7:13 am
Reply to  TerzoM

The Beam Team is DOPE AF

jwalker1395
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November 14, 2022 8:54 am

The thing I love most about Sabonis’ game is how reliable it is. It doesn’t take nothing but effort and focus to rebound, pass the ball, and finish easy looks inside, and Sabonis brings it every night.

He doesn’t need his shot to fall to make an impact. Luck has nothing to do with his game. He’s just an enormous steamroller and an almost guaranteed 20-12-5 every night out. That’s a big relief when you’re betting the state of your franchise on his consistent production.

Making things even more sustainable is just how many scoring options we have. Guys like Monk, TD, Davion, Murray, Barnes, Lyles, and Huerter can all be streaky, but it’s rare that EVERYBODY is going to be off on the same night.

This was something I emphasized preseason, but we’re young, mostly injury-free, and not dependent on any one guy to win the game for us *cough, Warriors, cough*. We’ve already seen wins where 2-3 guys had bad shooting nights, but the other 7-8 guys picked up the slack. That’s a good recipe for long-term success.

But sometimes, you do need a guy to step up and win a game for you, and my god has De’Aaron answered the call. He’s playing at another level this year. An absolute assassin with the game on the line. Here’s to many more fun wins!

Hippity_Hop_Barbershop
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November 14, 2022 9:16 am
Reply to  jwalker1395

The Fox and the Ox combo is turning out to be as sick as we’d hoped, we have unselfish legit starters, we have one of the deepest benches in the NBA, a stud rookie, seemingly amazing chemistry, and a freakin purple laser! Everyone is hungry. Safe to say Mike Brown & Co. found a switch and TURNED ON THE FUCKIN JETS!

murraytant
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November 14, 2022 9:28 am

I like the laser
and there were some sad excuse-filled, perplexed cars heading back to the Bay. “Let’s go (home) warriors!”

lutherRackley
November 14, 2022 8:58 am

Somewhere Pete Carril is smiling.

HoustonJP
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November 14, 2022 6:03 pm
Reply to  lutherRackley

Somewhere Luther Rackley is smiling. Long, Long time Royals and Kings fan!

murraytant
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November 14, 2022 9:26 am

Jerry Rice once said “act like you have been here before”.

I kept that in mind, last night, as I sat totally and quietly absorbed in the game, in my seat surrounded by dud fans who did not act like they had been here before. I was hopeful, confident and just not willing to get into cheering contests with the crazy entitled duds fans.
The Kings have a solid coaching staff and talented players. Have not put it all together yet. It is a confidence “we believe” thing.
It seems to be coming towards that. The Nets game- avoid a letdown- is a good indicator.
This team is nowhere near complete but there are parts. While Huerter starts, there is a set of different but interchangeable reserves: Davion, Monk and TD. All can contribute in their own ways. Lyles has been up and down. I wonder if Sasah could have helped here or would have been a distraction. Metu has settled into the reserve big role and is making “smarter” plays. Barnes less overall effectiveness but on occasion, when needed, will rise up.

Murray has been bothered by something- adjustments? but he is a smart player (3 steals) and an instinctive player. His game is MUCH bigger than he has shown. Without any seeming effort, he puts up 21. It does seem like he could do that more frequently.
A very telling play last night: Fox on top, called for the pick, shock off Huerter, motioned again for Murray who seemed surprised but came out, set the pick, got left alone and hit a wide open 3. That pick and pop could be very effective.
DS and Hueter work well together.
DS is a monster on the boards. Monk always throws up some crazy sh..t but some of it goes it. No, no… YES!
Davion is playing his butt off on D.
Play the next 3 games one at a time.

I do believe that Utah will regress quickly to the mean, that OKC wants Victor too much, that Minnesota is flawed, Dallas is one injury away from a 5-game losing streak, that the LAC are dependent on 1-2 guys getting well and getting hot (PG 4o points against the Kings, coupled with a lid of the FT line)
I want to avoid getting ahead of myself- act like I have been here, One game at a time. The last games are over.
I wanted Will Hardy as coach. I was wrong.
BTW- it looks like “James” for the duds is their Bagley but worse. Third year guy- can’t find the floor. Moody – who? and Kuminga is athletic, but can he play?
Jaden Ivey is a good player. I like Keegan better.

Nodaclu
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November 14, 2022 10:15 am
Reply to  murraytant

Murray has been bothered by something- adjustments? but he is a smart player (3 steals) and an instinctive player. His game is MUCH bigger than he has shown. 

As mentioned elsewhere and briefly on the telecast last night, his grandmother had a stroke during the Charlotte game. As someone who has lost almost his entire family over the past 15 years, I’m definitely giving the kid a break, and some time to process.

Totally agree that there is so much more there than we’ve already seen, and we’ve already seen a LOT. Keegan is going to be just fine, and by next season…my God is it going to be fun to watch him.

KingOfTheMonsters
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November 14, 2022 10:17 am
Reply to  Nodaclu

Sometimes when he plays, because he seems so smart and calm out there, I think this will be his team in three years.

Nodaclu
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November 14, 2022 12:56 pm

Something else to consider is how rare his circumstances are. Most Top 5 draft picks are expected to quickly become something between “the guy” and “the savior of the franchise”.

This is something that I think actually hindered Fox’s development, as it has many others, in both the NFL and the NBA. That pressure is real, and it can really mess with a guy’s head.

Keegan is in a really unique situation as a high draft pick, where he’s not being counted on to carry the club from Day 1. Ironically, I think his demeanor would probably allow him to handle it just fine, but the fact that he doesn’t have to is going to allow him to grow in a more natural way, with far less pressure, which is going to benefit both him, and the team, in the long run.

And funny enough, this is yet another comparison to Tim Duncan, who has been my favorite Keegan comp from Day 1 – near identical personality and mindset. Similar approach to the game, while acknowledging that Keegan, being a little smaller and more athletic at this stage of his career, does play further from the rim. Duncan had David Robinson and a solid surrounding cast around him early on, giving him time to grow into what he ultimately became.

Last edited 1 year ago by Nodaclu
MichaelMack
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November 14, 2022 2:20 pm
Reply to  Nodaclu

Two quick things:

One, I am glad you have moved from lurker to poster Nodaclu, I enjoy your perspective.

Two, I am all in on Keegan. He was my draft hope for a while, mostly just from his prototype, an athletic 6’8″ scorer with range, which is incredibly valuable and not common in today’s game.

Since the season has started though, I really think he can be a player of significance. His shooting is as advertised, as is his instincts as a scorer in general. He cuts well, he seems like he will be able to finish well at the rim, and his running jumpers and floaters show promise. I think what I am most excited about is how complete of player he might be able to be. He seems to have a knack for blocking shots, he is able to get deflections and steals, and I like how Brown has been testing him with defending high level guards on the perimeter. While he doesn’t seem to be remarkably quick or fast, I like the way he moves on the court. He is always low to the ground, very efficient in his movement, he rarely seems flat-footed.

He is exactly the type of player that you would want if Fox and Sabonis are your foundation.

Last edited 1 year ago by MichaelMack
HoustonJP
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November 14, 2022 6:08 pm
Reply to  MichaelMack

Have a rec Michael.

I am with you on Keegan. He has a very high ceiling.

Bluejohn
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November 14, 2022 11:50 pm
Reply to  HoustonJP

I am totally with you on Keegan along with Houston JP and also I have enjoyed your posts. Well thought out but no screaming…always valued by me at least. I think that Keegan has not even begun to scratch the surface of what he’s capable of. But always keep your eye on Davion. There’s a hella good player working his way through his sophomore year. There have been at least 2 or 3 games where he hasn’t scored and he still had at least a plus minus higher than most of the rest of the team. Enjoying your perspective

Adamsite
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Nostradumbass 14
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November 14, 2022 5:12 pm
Reply to  Nodaclu

Before the season started, I had him as a Rashard Lewis comp, with hope of maybe some Shawn Marion. Having seen him play 10+ games, I actually now see a bit of Jayson Tatum.

IMO, He doesn’t have the explosiveness or passing of Tatum, but the calm collectiveness and IQ is there. He is still feeling things out, but go check out Tatum’s rookie season, or better yet his first 11 games, and the comp is fair. Tatum came in as a 19 year old while Murray is 22, but their rookie years may be on par.

Tatum’s rookie year saw him average 14 and 5 while shooting an insane 43% from three on just 3 attempts per game over 80 games Keegan, despite his recent slump, is averaging close to 13 and 4 while taking 6.5 threes a game at 38%.

KingOfTheMonsters
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November 14, 2022 10:15 am
Reply to  murraytant

It seems like there is an evolution going on, players “getting it” and getting used to playing with each other. You see moments of free-flowing basketball and it is beautiful, and I feel like it will only keep growing.
Rashawn – I wonder if he just needs more time getting used to the offense? I don’t understand why they can’t run a few pick and rolls for him. Could he not co-exist with Domas if Domas plays the high post and Rashawn cuts inside?
Davion – His scoring is now what I expected this season, but, damn, he is earning his paycheck with that D.
Utah – I think they are for real. They remind me of the Kings, having a bunch of shooters and defending the three and layups. I think they have a better interior defense than the Kings. That will be an interesting matchup.
Keegan – I like him better too. When and where did he score 21 points. He flubbed a few passes. He just has to get used to the speed of the game and be ready. He makes a lot of good decisions. He’s going to be a great player in two, three years.
Defense – They still are evolving, but they have had their moments, especially at the end of games. Wish they had a guy like Vanderbilt on the Jazz.
Good post!

Henry
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November 14, 2022 2:43 pm

I think the problem with Holmes has been his atrocious defense.

RikSmits
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November 14, 2022 10:38 am
Reply to  murraytant

Jerry Rice once said “act like you have been here before”.

The thing is, we HAVE been here before.

It was very recent history where we started off quite well, only to fall apart. Or we stumbled out of the gate and bounced back with a bunch of strong games. And each one of these seasons we were proclaiming that that season felt different. Until it didn’t…

2021-22; started 5-4 including quality wins over the Blazers and Sunsand pleople were saying that Walton maybe knew what he was doing and that Monte may have been right to retain him. We then went 1-8 and all know how that ended.

2020-21; started 12-11, with quality wins over the Nuggets (thrice!), Suns, Knicks, Celtics and Clippers. We were sure we were on the way to break the play-off draught. Then we had tehse two 9 game losing streaks…

2019-20; after a very slow 0-5 start, we won 7 of 10 and people were saying that season felt different too, before it fell apart.

So, as much as I am enjoying the games so far and although I do think there are some encouraging signs of matters that may be sustainable, we have been here before and I will keep a wait and see approach for the long term, while happily celebrating the play in the short term, so far.
(I mainly just wish that I could trust our defense more)

Kosta
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November 14, 2022 10:42 am
Reply to  RikSmits

a-HA!

So you DO think we’ll make the play-in:

“…while happily celebrating the play in the short term, so far.”

RikSmits
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November 14, 2022 10:43 am
Reply to  Kosta

Get that band-aid off your eye, Kosta.

Kosta
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November 14, 2022 10:51 am
Reply to  RikSmits

OFF?

as in PLAYOFF?

Right there with you, Rik!

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Last edited 1 year ago by Kosta
Want2win
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November 14, 2022 3:49 pm
Reply to  RikSmits

All great and very accurate comments, the difference for me is that this feels different and more sustainable then those other times. The players that are propelling it are better as a collective whole. . Huerter is a better player than buddy, Fox has grown and he’s better than he ever was with those teams in those years. Sabonis is a different player that gives them a different dimension than cousins and he is not a Headcase like cousins was. Murray is going to be an exceptional player in my opinion and only continue to get better. The key is the bench strength and depth that we see with monk, Mitchell, TD. Metu Is playing within himself which I think is a product of coaching, I don’t know what to make of Holmes. I still would love to have a good shot blocker they can play alongside Sabonis and defend smaller threes because Murray should not be guarding guys like Klay Thompson in my humble opinion or Wiggins because is they are closer to a swing than a true small forward. I see so much more versatility with this roster than others. Just my unsolicited 2 cents..

RikSmits
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November 14, 2022 11:36 pm
Reply to  Want2win

Thanks.

the difference for me is that this feels different and more sustainable then those other times. 

But this is just another “this time it feels different differently, no really!” comment.
I heard it all before. We live on hope and are adept at taking every positive thing and magnify it and to yada yada yada the negative things (here’s the assist, Kosta). That’s fine, but I have a different approach.

I see some glimpses of hope but I want to see it for a sustained period and I want to see further improvement on defense before I am getting all giddy.

HoustonJP
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November 14, 2022 6:17 pm
Reply to  RikSmits

Rik,

We have to unpack the slump buster to avoid a recurrence of past Armageddons.

Put on your bathrobe and go to bed for a month or so…thirty in the “W” column when you wake up.

No worries. Playoffs.

RikSmits
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November 14, 2022 11:37 pm
Reply to  HoustonJP

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Bluejohn
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November 14, 2022 11:56 pm
Reply to  RikSmits

I just had to give you a rec for that

Bluejohn
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November 15, 2022 12:11 am
Reply to  Bluejohn

Except no ice skates or wooden clogs

Sacto_J
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November 15, 2022 12:53 pm
Reply to  RikSmits

Welsh tart!? I thought you were Dutch…

HoustonJP
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November 15, 2022 2:05 pm
Reply to  RikSmits

Classic. Rec.

Kingsguru21
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November 15, 2022 8:47 am
Reply to  RikSmits

The thing is, we HAVE been here before.

Going to have to disgree with you Dutchman. There have been times where I was more optimistic than you and it proved unfounded. That I will agree with. But this edition of the Kings is not like the previous 3 seasons IMO.

Before we get into that, I will acknowledge there were times under Walton where the Kings had a top 10 ORtg (like the 20-21 season), even had a top half the NBA offensive eFG% (the 2020-21 team was 9th in offensive eFG%). So this team has had productive offense at times. But the defense, oh the defense was just oh so bad.

Here’s a big difference between this edition and the edition 2 years ago. That Kings team was bad at defensive eFG%, but they were terrible rebounding, too. They were 30th in defensive eFG% AND 29th in defensive rebounding percentage (they were 30th until they played OKC in the last couple of games that season).

Yeah. I know that’s your point.

So why the optimism? As I’ve said all off-season, this comes down to your opinion of De’Aaron Fox. Really, that, and your opinion of Domantas Sabonis and his impact on the game. Your 2 best players have played like such, that is what is making me optimistic. Last season? Barnes and Holmes had great starts, Haliburton was playing well, but Fox was not. I was hopeful it could turn around, but then Walton got fired and that was that. In retrospect, that optimism was clearly misguided on my part as the FO tanked the season under Vivek Ranadive’s nose. Until Harkless left the starting lineup, the Kings had a DRtg of 109.5 (and an ORtg of 109.9). That was after the San Antonio blowout, I might add. (Which has not happened as of yet this season.)

This season? Fox and Sabonis are playing well, Huerter, Monk and Murray have all complimented them nicely, and even Barnes has made some valuable contributions even if statistically he’s nowhere near where he’s been in the past.

There was a sequence in this last Warriors game I’d like to highlight that personally feels different to me. Klay Thompson hit b2b 3’s in the 3rd qtr that put the Dubs up 6 with 8:27 left in the 3rd qtr with the score 78-72. Huerter hits a floater in the lane. 78-74 Dubs. Klay Thompson misses a 3. Fox misses a 3. Barnes steals the ball from Curry the next possession and gets the assist passing to Murray for a transition dunk. 78-76 Dubs. Klay misses ANOTHER 3. Sabonis grabs the D board (when’s the last time the Kings had a guy with a 20-20 game?– this is rhetorical, you weren’t even a Kings fan yet Dutchman the last time a Kings player — Chris Webber — did that), Barnes misses a layup, Domas grabs the O Board and gets the layup. Tie game at 78. Klay’s 2nd made 3 was at the 8:27 mark of the 3rd, Domas’ layup happens at the 6:55 mark.

So why is this a big deal? I don’t feel like this team panics when the other team makes their runs. They know other NBA teams (including this Dubs team) are good, they know they will make runs, they know other teams will come at them. They play with a toughness, mentally I might add, that doesn’t seem to be there in previous editions. I attribute that to the players brought in, but Fox’s attitude and effort is dramatically improved too. Murray is a tough minded kid whose many areas of weakness are already showing up…and it doesn’t matter. He’s doing the things that make him a NBA player.

And Mike Brown, well, Mike Brown has OCD and it shows…in a good way IMO. Here’s something that I thought was incredibly wonderful, but Mike Brown took time at the 11:23 mark of the 4th qtr. That was the last timeout he took ALL game. He still had 2 left by the time the final buzzer sounded. When was the last time that happened?

Kerr took time at the 9:03 mark of the 4th qtr after the Kings took a 107-98 lead. He took time again at the 4:19 mark of the 4th. And again at the 2:03 mark of the 4th qtr.

4 timeouts taken, and 3 of them by Steve Kerr because his team wasn’t up to the task that night. Especially his bench.

This isn’t a Harrison Barnes hot streak (including that miracle 3 he hit in Phoenix), or some bad matchups mixed in. Whose having a career year? Huerter? He’s taking all of a single FG more than he ever did in Atlanta. The biggest change is he’s taking more 3’s than he did in Atl. And shooting more FT’s (and missing more for some reason). Keegan Murray, after his excellent game Sunday, is averaging a tick under 13 PPG. And he isn’t averaging 4 rebounds either. He has more turnovers than assists. What miracle is inherently contained there?

Sabonis? He’s averaging 18, 11 & 6 right now. Both All Star campaigns in Indy were better than that. Fox is averaging 25 & 6 right now on 55/83/37 splits. That’s what’s new. That’s what you don’t believe in. Fine. I get it. I’m optimistic, but you’re not. No worries.

But, stop saying the Kings have been here before. They haven’t. Fox has never played with a player the caliber of Sabonis, and IMO Sabonis has never played with a player the caliber of this edition of De’Aaron Fox either. Huerter’s shooting pace would be easily the best shooter Sabonis has ever played with, Monk ls one of 3 Kings with 50+ total assists (Sabonis leads the team with 75, Fox has 61), and the Kings are 6th in the NBA in total assists right now; last season the Kings were 22nd.

*****

It took a legendary performance from Curry to beat the Kings in SF the 2nd time. The Dubs were getting after it Sunday too, AND LOST. I don’t know if anybody noticed but they kicked the living shit out of the Spurs last night in similar fashion to the way they used to beat the Kings. Early, without a ton of effort. They probably had a plan to sit Curry and Green but couldn’t because they needed to beat the Spurs because they lost to the Kings the night before. When’s the last time that happened?

It feels like a lot has aligned this go around. McNair and Brown are more or less on the same page. Brown clearly is willing to go into games with Fox and Sabonis as his two best players. That matters. McNair has tinkering to do with the roster to find rim protection and more defense somewhere in here. As I saw Nathaniel Miller point out on Twitter yesterday, perhaps where the Kings really need to find an improvement is off their bench because that’s where they are often getting hit with big runs. Their starting lineup is absolutely killing it right now.

Do I expect you to believe Dutchman? Nope. I don’t. But I like the trends more or less as this is what I was believing this roster was capable more or less overall. The question is how much tinkering on the margins and how much improvement you can get from your mix and matching and knowledge of the roster as the season moves on. What happens to your depth when injuries hit?

There are a lot of questions about this team yet to be answerd, but that’s what happens when you are only 12 games in. I didn’t expect those who didn’t believe to believe even if the Kings were .500 at this point. I expected those who were hoping for a great season to be over-exuberant and a bit over the top (lack of success does that sometimes LOL). But what I feel like there are positive trends and there are areas where you can get legitimately better while maintaining what got you here in the first place. Basically, I think the Kings can continue to shoot the ball well, figure out a way to add some rim protection here or there, get a higher functioning Keegan Murray, and none of it will disrupt much because this team is built around Sabonis and Fox on the offensive end with the contributions they give you on the defensive end. I see the possibility for sustainability here. I did see that last season, but because the FO (clearly so in retrospect) pulled the plug almost immediately before the season truly got going, it didn’t matter. They tanked the chemistry last season. What’s there to tank for this year?

Let’s revisit this in a couple of weeks after the Kings square off against the Indianapolis Haliburton’s. Will that make you feel better? 🙂

Daydreamer
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November 14, 2022 4:02 pm
Reply to  murraytant

How many additional victories will the coaching staff (Mike Brown, but others too) add over the course of a season, vs. last years’ coaches? I suspect it will be closer to 10 than to 5.

RobHessing
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November 14, 2022 9:42 am

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ZillersCat
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November 14, 2022 10:29 am
Reply to  RobHessing

It is fun to binge watch the Kings wins, but it is tough to watch peeking over the pillow .. Is this Real!
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Kosta
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November 14, 2022 10:37 am
Reply to  ZillersCat

Netflix and chill!

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TerzoM
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November 14, 2022 12:00 pm
Reply to  RobHessing

More More More
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KingOfTheMonsters
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November 14, 2022 9:46 am

I think they play the Nets on Tuesday.

andy_sims
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November 14, 2022 9:53 am

Everyone is an accurate critic.

KingOfTheMonsters
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November 14, 2022 10:35 am
Reply to  andy_sims

It is not criticism. It is a correction.
I did not write it to be critical, nor does it come across as critical.

andy_sims
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November 14, 2022 11:22 am

A critic does not limit themselves to negative comments. They can say positive things, or things that are merely true. Pointing out that you are correct is not an indictment of any kind.

KingOfTheMonsters
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November 14, 2022 11:56 am
Reply to  andy_sims

OK. Wasn’t sure what you were getting at.
thought I put up a benign correction. I even couched it.
was not expecting a response.
thanks,

AnybodyButBagley
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November 14, 2022 12:32 pm

One of the two most fragile egos on the internet. When you try to engage in an actual conversation it gets really interesting.

satdawg
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November 14, 2022 12:28 pm

Yep, going to the game. First regular season game in a while

Nodaclu
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November 14, 2022 10:25 am

Crazy to think about Monte’s 3 drafts:

  1. Halliburton (which became Sabonis)
  2. Mitchell (a clear 1-on-1 defensive stopper, and will eventually be a Top 10 defensive player in the entire league)
  3. Murray (who in 3-5 years, is probably going to be the best of all of them)

When you stop to consider the Sea of Sadness that has been the Kings draft selections through most of the Sacramento era, this mini-run has been truly remarkable.

Until now, I’m trying to think of the best player(s) drafted and developed by the Kings in the Sac era. Peja? Kevin Martin? DMC would be obvious in there from a drafting standpoint, but certainly not a developmental one.

The more I think about the draft history, the more I’m truly impressed with what’s happened the last three years.

Does hitting on 4 of your last 5 first round picks (including Fox in 2017 and no 2019 1st rounder) make up for Luka?

Nah, who am I kidding? Nothing will ever make up for that travesty.

KingOfTheMonsters
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November 14, 2022 10:37 am
Reply to  Nodaclu

To be fair, Alex Oriakhi was never given a fair shot.

Kosta
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November 14, 2022 10:40 am
Reply to  Nodaclu

Maybe is taking longer than we wished, but Fox is looking pretty damn good.

andy_sims
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November 14, 2022 11:24 am
Reply to  Kosta

Even Superman needed the League of Justice, if cartoons are to be believed. Otherwise, he’s just a freak who somehow doesn’t kill Lois Lane during sex.

UpgradedToQuestionable
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November 14, 2022 12:54 pm
Reply to  andy_sims

Imagine how some of the other superheroes have to get through relationships.

Her: Hi, you in the red suit. You are mighty handsome. Would you like to come back to my place?
Him: I would like that!
Her: What’s your name?
Him: Flash
Her: Oh! uhm, nevermind.

rockbottom
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November 15, 2022 7:34 am
Reply to  Nodaclu

Hedo was a very good one as was Corless . Both taken in teens and very good for Kings and brought a lot in trade . Brad Miller, Doug Christi .

PretendGhost
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November 14, 2022 10:38 am

I have fallen in love with Monk over this recent stretch. He’s got some Lou Williams/Manu Ginobili to his game, with how own frenetic twitchy energy that makes him really unpredictable — a lot of “no, no, yes” plays that I’m starting to look forward to. His playmaking has been essential to the success of this team as Mitchell has sputtered in that area.

At the end of the season, if the Kings are in legitimate running for a playoff spot, he’s going to get looks for 6MotY.

Kosta
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November 14, 2022 10:47 am
Reply to  PretendGhost

Yeah, he’s fun to watch!

He kickstarted a nice comeback in the second. He’s a really good player to have off the bench.

If we’re still doing the bandaids by the Pistons game, I might wear a bandaid that says “I (heart) Malik” drawn in Sharpie.

HoustonJP
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November 14, 2022 6:28 pm
Reply to  Kosta

Kosta, watch him on the bench too.

The ultimate teammate cheering everyone on who is on the floor.

There is a great gif of Kevin Huerter on Twitter hitting threes in a blended musical video displaying the red velvet side of his life. In the background on one of Huerters’ 3’s shot from Kansas is Monk dancing and skipping away celebrating his teammate.

Malik is only 24!

MichaelMack
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November 14, 2022 6:35 pm
Reply to  HoustonJP

I had no idea Monk had such good playmaking skills. I think that is going to go a long ways to helping Davion grow into being an NBA level point guard.

Our guard line of Fox-Huerter-Monk-Mitchell is pretty formidable.

andy_sims
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November 14, 2022 11:29 am
Reply to  PretendGhost

Monk and Davis both seem to make good things happen, and their effort is never in question. With those two, Fox, and Mitchell, that is just ridiculous speed and defensive effort from your back court, and I think we are already seeing some dividends. Whatever combo of guards are in, plus Huerter, there’s not a real dropoff.

Serious athleticism with this bunch, and using it to great effect.

Kosta
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November 14, 2022 10:49 am
Reply to  TerzoM

Nice! I love it.

Fox and Monk:

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ZillersCat
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November 14, 2022 12:23 pm
Reply to  Kosta

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andy_sims
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November 14, 2022 11:32 am
Reply to  TerzoM

This here is incredible, and I’ve never seen either Top Gun movie.

Kingsguru21
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November 14, 2022 12:48 pm
Reply to  andy_sims

That clip where you see Cruise and Edwards high-fiving is where the soundbite “I’ve got a serious need for speed” came from. FWIW.

TerzoM
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November 14, 2022 12:08 pm
Reply to  TerzoM

TKH Twitter need 3 more followers to reach 10k!

Last edited 1 year ago by TerzoM
Ellis5
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November 14, 2022 3:49 pm
Reply to  TerzoM

I followed

Want2win
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November 14, 2022 4:03 pm
Reply to  TerzoM

I went and followed, I need more sports things to follow because whenever I go onto Twitter I see all of these political BS posts from the left and the right that are not grounded in any intellectual honesty and it drives me crazy and I’m stupid enough to get sucked into them

Hippity_Hop_Barbershop
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November 14, 2022 12:43 pm
Reply to  TerzoM

Oh man that got me pumped. The sound iso after the logo buzzer beater. Slow clap TKH

9sac8
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November 14, 2022 8:59 pm
Reply to  TerzoM

This is so great. You are the man right now.

oshima9
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November 14, 2022 12:05 pm

Great to see the Kings embrace Brown and improve so quickly. Murray has an impact, even when he isn’t scoring, and Huerter is a better all around player than I expected. He seemed to be primarily a spot up shooter in Atlanta, but he’s much more. Getting away from a ball dominant player like Young has opened up his game.

Marty
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November 14, 2022 1:17 pm

“The ball is energy. You move the ball, you move the energy around. Guys are going to like playing with each other and it helps build chemistry pretty fast,” Huerter said. “If you’re a team that one or two guys are dominating the ball you don’t build chemistry very fast.”

I think there is a lot of truth to this. You guys know I’m a Sixers fan, and waiting for them to “put it together” has gotten real old. As good as Embiid is, they’re just not that fun to watch the majority of the time.

The Kings however, they’re “must-see” right now.

I like that quote.

Guys come off the bench and I’m saying to myself; “Watch what this mutha is about to do.”

Last edited 1 year ago by Marty Marty
MichaelMack
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November 14, 2022 2:29 pm
Reply to  Marty

What do you really think of Embiid Marty? I have tried to watch them as much as I can, and certainly have seen a lot of their playoff games the last couple of years, but I am just not sure Embiid has the personality of the best player on a championship team. It is hard to be specific as it is very much a gut feeling from being a rabid NBA fan since 1978, but is he a leader? I don’t think so. Along that vein, I don’t think Doncic has it either.

Marty
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November 14, 2022 6:14 pm
Reply to  MichaelMack

Well I wanted to trade Embiid and keep Simmons, what do I know.

MichaelMack
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November 14, 2022 6:29 pm
Reply to  Marty

That seemed fair at the time. I would have thought the same way.

UpgradedToQuestionable
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November 14, 2022 1:19 pm

Some more hot takes:

I agree that a big thank you should go to GM McNair. He brought in HC Brown. And then an even bigger thank you to Mike Brown for insisting to pick his own staff. They have shown that they will work hard to change this team. They understand the challenge of “Being (Vivek’s) The Sacramento Kings”. Coaches Fernandez, Triano, Louckes, Christie, Barbosa, Harding and Gaitley get a deep bow of respect from me.
Yes – it’s early in the season. Yes, we’ve seen this start before. A few times, even recently. I get the sense – falsely perhaps, that this staff and this team will have a better second half of the season then the first.

As for the roster – well, yes, you have to start with De’Aaron Fox. What I like best is seeing him operate on offense when he creates his scores the last few 4th quarters. He ain’t no Steph Curry (and btw, that first quarter by Finals MVP Curry last night was almost inhuman at times. Superstar.) – he is finding and winding his way to layups and mid-range fadeaways and seems almost unstoppable. He doesn’t seem to be forcing 3s or trying to drive the lane with 3 guys waiting for him. More DeMar Derozan-esque. It is a wonderful sight to see. It’s a much mature game from De’Aaron than we have ever seen before.

You could say the same for Damontas Sabonis – his 2/2 from 3 last night was nice – but he is another player who plays within his skill set. But he has done that for a while. Smart, capable, fairly unspectacular, but reliable and heady.

Band-Aid Monk has been Bench Aid. Kevin Heurter – might not ever be an All-Star but damn, what a solid starting 2. I hope to see him in the 3 point challenge this year. Love me some Red Velvet. Kee-Gan Mur-ray – that kid’s alright. I get the feeling that Harrison Barnes is the veteran locker room presence and a great guy – his game isn’t quite all the way back to his higher standard. I expect it to return there.

As for everyone else – I like that the Kings are winning, but they all seem replaceable, including Davion and certainly Richaun, who is not fitting in as much as hoped, unfortunately. Metu, Lyles, Davis – good folks. But /shrug. Could be worse.

Last edited 1 year ago by UpgradedToQuestionable
PretendGhost
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November 14, 2022 1:57 pm

Ever since Brown figured out the 10-man rotation that is most effective, this team has really taken off. None of them are defensive sieves, and all of them can contribute on offense all the way out to the three point line.

The floor spacing is huge and cannot be emphasized enough. All 10 of the rotation players have made at least one three pointer this season, and the stats get even better from there:

  • 9 of them have hit at least 2 in one game (Metu is the exception)
  • 7 of them have hit at least 3 in a game
  • 4 have hit at least 5 in a game

If any given player can step in and get a couple three pointers, and they’re constantly moving around to open up opportunities, that means defenses get zero breaks. We’re seeing opposing players wear out by the end of the game, and the Kings (especially Fox) have taken advantage in crunch time.

Something I remember from Fox’s 2020/21 seasons was that he was one of the best 4th quarter scorers all season long. He tended to start games slowly and ramp it up as it went on, which I think was a tactic to A) get teammates involved, and B) conserve his own energy. That model is paying dividends.

I can’t wait for each next game. Been a long time since that was the case. Go Kings.

Bluejohn
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November 14, 2022 2:59 pm

For all you Matt Barnes haters out there I can only tell you he has been giving massive props and attention to the Kings, De’aaron and Keegan. He’s bringing a lot of national attention to the team and players on NBA today. For that matter so has Mark Spears.

If De’arron can keep up this level of play and the team can at least be a .500 team Fox is getting more attention than he ever has and if Keegan get back to the level he’s capable of Fox could actually make the playoffs Keegan would be a strong candidate for ROY if the Magic don’t get the playin. We’ll see. JUst got diagnosed with Covid so hold back the hate.

Mike120
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November 14, 2022 3:32 pm
Reply to  Bluejohn

Best of luck with the covid. I had it a few months ago. Healthy, but pushing 60. It felt like a mild 36 hour cold.

Bluejohn
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November 15, 2022 12:18 am
Reply to  Mike120

Thanks Mike, just a little past 60 and had one of my worst nights ever last night not involving a broken bone but am already starting to feel better. Thanks for the encouragement.

Kosta
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November 14, 2022 3:32 pm
Reply to  Bluejohn

Hope you recover and feel better soon. Sorry to hear that.

Daydreamer
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November 14, 2022 4:35 pm
Reply to  Bluejohn

Get well. Be well!

Kingsguru21
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November 14, 2022 7:15 pm
Reply to  Bluejohn

Hope you start feeling better soon BJ.

Want2win
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November 14, 2022 7:40 pm
Reply to  Kingsguru21

I know a BJ would make me feel better and I am always telling my wife it’s the best medicine for anything..

Bluejohn
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November 15, 2022 12:23 am
Reply to  Want2win

And you know I never thought that people would start using my BJ initials when I signed up on the old sight back in 2008 and an old friend started using them. Actually I think a BJ would probably make me feel better tonight.

Bluejohn
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November 15, 2022 12:20 am
Reply to  Kingsguru21

Thanks bud. Amazingly went from feeling on death’s door to just really feeling crappy

RikSmits
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November 14, 2022 11:31 pm
Reply to  Bluejohn

Get well soon!

Bluejohn
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November 15, 2022 12:23 am
Reply to  RikSmits

Thanks Rik

andy_sims
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November 15, 2022 7:13 am
Reply to  Bluejohn

Before Barnes even retired, I saw him doing some studio commentary, and was just amazed at how good he was at it. He’s quick on his feet, asks good questions, and conveys information very well. He ain’t popular around here, but he’s a solid on-air guy.

And get well soon, John.

Mike120
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November 14, 2022 3:17 pm

Let’s not forget the Kings beat a dynastic team that still has the core of it’s championship team from last year. None of the main Dubs were out sick or injured. In the recent and distant past, a late Kings lead that became a deficit was a virtual lock to be a loss. The Kings have been able to turn up the D, just enough, in the final minutes and score to claw back in to games. It’s still early, but they need to continue to learn and improve.

What’s up with all the Kings male coaches being bald?

Yakshi
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November 14, 2022 4:21 pm
Reply to  Mike120

They don’t have time for hair.

Bluejohn
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November 15, 2022 12:25 am
Reply to  Yakshi

They don’t have hair

Adamsite
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November 14, 2022 4:57 pm
Reply to  Mike120

Not to knock a solid win, but man to the Dubs (sans Curry) look like a shell of themselves. It’s hard to fathom that they won the title in pretty clear fashion just a few short months ago.

IMO, Green’s been on a slow but steady decline for a few seasons, but Klay has fallen off a cliff this season. I’m not sure that it’s his injuries, but rather just father time. We have to remember all of those guys have a few extra seasons under their belts due to multiple lengthy post seasons. Lots of miles on those legs.

Now couple all that with the (in my opinion) overpay of Poole, and the Dubs with their ultra expensive tax payments, may have some hard decisions in the coming months. They only have a few short seasons with Curry and may need to make some major changes if they want to compete this year.

Want2win
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November 14, 2022 5:32 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

I say they need to blow it up and tank.. we will take Wiggins and they can have Holmes and Barnes.. they need a new center and Barnes will be off the books.. so we can help them

Adamsite
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November 14, 2022 7:18 pm
Reply to  Want2win

I’d do that trade, but I don’t think the Dubs would. Wiggins is currently the 2nd best player on that team and is likely part of the of the next phase of the Warriors along with their young bench.

My butt pulled guess is they’d like to move Wiseman. He’s due for a rookie extension and is currently a DNP/CD rotation player. He’s a #2 pick who can’t crack the rotation. He’s basically their Marvin Bagley squared.

I don’t know if he is worth it, but Holmes for Wiseman does work and saves the Warriors the commitment of extending Wiseman.

Kingsguru21
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November 14, 2022 7:26 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

I don’t know if he is worth it, but Holmes for Wiseman does work and saves the Warriors the commitment of extending Wiseman.

I doubt the Dubs do that. They have most of 2 seasons before a new contract kicks in. They can afford to wait on Wiseman.

And I’m not sure exactly what Wiseman really does for the Kings either.

Adamsite
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November 14, 2022 7:35 pm
Reply to  Kingsguru21

Agreed. I just saw it as a lateral move that gives the Warriors a live body in Holmes that me be better and cheaper long term than Wiseman. From the Kings perspective, it’s just a chance to move on from Holmes and an opportunity to kick the tires on Wiseman.

That aside, the failure of Wiseman is an interesting wrinkle to an otherwise perfect draft decade by the Warriors. They’ve been a model for drafting talent, but seem to have blown with with their highest pick in Wiseman at #2.

Kingsguru21
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November 15, 2022 10:30 am
Reply to  Adamsite

That aside, the failure of Wiseman is an interesting wrinkle to an otherwise perfect draft decade by the Warriors. They’ve been a model for drafting talent, but seem to have blown with with their highest pick in Wiseman at #2.

Even smart teams miss. OTOH, they really hit a homerun on Wiggins so that mitigates that a lot.

But I just saw that Wiseman is heading to Santa Cruz so it’s probably pretty likely that they’re hoping he can get on track in the G League and then be a contributing role player as this season finishes out. Player development, as we all know, is rarely linear.

Want2win
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November 14, 2022 7:42 pm
Reply to  Adamsite

It was more sarcasm because I think Wiggins would be a great SF for this team..

Jack
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November 15, 2022 7:17 am
Reply to  Adamsite

If not Wiggins then what about Hayward.?2 years on his contract. We draft a small forward and that gives us 2 years to develop. Hayward can still play good basketball. Look what he is doing right now. The only thing that would bother me would be the injuries. Doing alright now but would be my only concern. His IQ is high an he does some things Wiggins doesn’t do like assists and play making. A better team player and locker room asset. He doesn’t have to carry the team and might even be the fifth option. Has the experience. What do you think?

Milkman
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November 14, 2022 5:58 pm

“Teammates did a great job of finding me, looking for me, and my job is to finish,” Sabonis said postgame. 

Refreshing having this now than a foul prone, high usage, no vert, create his own turnover/shot center…

SelecaoKOJ
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November 14, 2022 8:42 pm

Have to be one of the few to say, Glass half empty. I want to preface this. Team is playing with purpose, heart and smarts every game. The offense is electric. The defense looks no different than last year.

I wanted to put the last 8 games under a microscope to evaluate how much this team has really improved.

7 of the last 8 games have been against really bad teams. Sorry, but the Dubs are really bad. 1 win was against a winning team: Cleveland.

Now granted, this team would have played down to the level of their competition in the past.

This team is finally beating the teams they’re supposed to.

Discovery:

4 of their 6 wins have been against the absolute worst defensive teams in the NBA. Charlotte, Lakers, Magic, and Dubs. Ranked 25-29 in the NBA. Miami ranked 15th. Cleveland ranked 8th. So, at least there’s something to hang the hat on.

As extra incentive the Spurs are ranked 24th and the Pistons 29th. Nets are average at 17th.

The Kings actual ceiling will be tested after this 3 game home stand. 10 of 12 on the road. A majority of the teams they play are Top 7 in each conference.

Murderer’s Row: Grizz, Hawks, Celtics, Suns, Bucks, Raptors, Sixers, Cavs, Clippers, and Pacers. Bulls and Knicks are the only teams they play under .500

A number of Top 10 defenses in that lot: Celtics, Hawks, Grizz, Clips, Suns, Raptors.

This team is definitely trending in the right direction. But to quote Fox, “Good teams have to beat good teams.”

So, let it Roll!

RPO
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November 15, 2022 12:31 am
Reply to  SelecaoKOJ

Yep, there’s definitely a lot left to prove. I’m actually expecting the upcoming brutal schedule to improve the team, even if the win- loss numbers don’t necessarily show it.

RPO
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November 14, 2022 11:09 pm

Let’s see if we ever get 5 games over 0.500, then I’ll start to believe we’re legit.

nonstripedzebra
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November 15, 2022 7:16 am

I have to say Brown’s nuance offensively thus far is really admirable. Along with Monte targeting shooters that are also adept cutters and able to play on the swivel.

The geometry in the halfcourt has been greatly helped by Fox’s threes improving. They play quick but also are utilizing Deaaron’s unpredictability. His initiating and speed yet also Sabonis and the shooters halfcourt strengths. Not the easiest puzzle to solve and yet it seems cohesive and logical possession to possession.

An aside I second Brenden’s Domas appreciation. Listen Fox has made a jump and every team needs an initiator. He’s being that to a positive and efficient effect. But the shooters strengths (especially Huerter) do come from just exceptional pick setting and high post navigation from Sabonis. Obviously foul trouble and defensive concerns are present night to night, but every possession on the other end it seems he’s doing for our five things to add to a better look. He’s a joy to watch and I hope this nice run for him continues.

Keep it up Kings

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