The Sacramento Kings pulled off an impressive 123-117 win against the Golden State Warriors at the Golden 1 Center, showcasing their defensive prowess and offensive resilience. Despite a sluggish start, the Kings managed to turn the game around in the second half, largely due to their ability to contain Warriors superstar Stephen Curry.
Curry, widely regarded as the greatest shooter of all time, was held to just two points in the second half, shooting a mere 1-of-5 from the field. This defensive masterclass was primarily orchestrated by the tandem of Keegan Murray and Keon Ellis, who took turns guarding the Warriors’ sharpshooter. Their length, agility, and relentless pressure forced Curry into a facilitator role, limiting his scoring opportunities and disrupting the Warriors’ offensive flow.
The first half was a different story, with the Kings struggling to find their rhythm. We were down by 17 points at halftime, reminiscent of our early-season woes. Our defense was lackadaisical, allowing the Warriors to shoot 53% from beyond the arc. Offensively, we couldn’t buy a bucket, shooting a dismal 39% from the field.
However, the second half saw a complete turnaround. Our defensive intensity skyrocketed, forcing 12 Warrior turnovers and converting them into 21 points. We dominated in transition, outscoring the Warriors 28-0 in fast break points for the game. This renewed energy translated to our offense as well, with the team shooting 60% from the field in the second half.
DeMar DeRozan’s Perfect Third Quarter
DeMar DeRozan’s third-quarter performance was nothing short of spectacular. He scored 19 points on a perfect 7-of-7 shooting from the field, including a deep three-pointer. This offensive explosion was crucial in erasing the Warriors’ lead and setting the stage for our comeback victory.
DeRozan’s ability to take over when the team is struggling offensively is precisely why we acquired him. His mid-range game and clutch scoring provide a reliable option when our transition offense is stifled, solving a problem that plagued us in previous seasons.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Kings’ victory over the Warriors, tune into the Locked On Kings podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Kings Podcast:
• De’Aaron Fox’s impact despite offensive struggles
• Doug Christie’s influence as interim head coach
• Kings’ upcoming six-game road trip and playoff positioning
