The Sacramento Kings are on fire, and 2025 is shaping up to be their year. With seven straight victories under their belt, including a recent win against the Chicago Bulls, the team has climbed above .500 for the first time in nearly two months. This turnaround is nothing short of remarkable, considering their 13-19 record on December 28th.
As I’ve been watching this team closely, I believe I’ve identified two key factors that Doug Christie has instilled in the Kings, which could be the foundation for lasting success throughout the remainder of the season.
Firstly, the Kings are demonstrating an impressive ability to win games in various ways. From defensive showdowns to offensive shootouts, from gritty overtime battles to dominant road performances, this team is proving they can adapt and excel in different scenarios. This versatility is a hallmark of great teams and shows that Sacramento doesn’t rely on a single style of play to secure victories.
Secondly, and perhaps most importantly, the Kings are playing with a newfound confidence. The joy is back in their game, evident in their ball movement, player interactions, and the smiles on their faces. However, it’s crucial to note that there’s a fine line between confidence and cockiness – a line the Kings have occasionally crossed in recent seasons.
The current roster is performing at an exceptional level, meeting and even exceeding pre-season expectations. Doug Christie is getting the best out of this group, and there’s a sense that they can improve even further. However, as the trade deadline approaches, the Kings face a delicate balancing act.
While the team is thriving, there are still clear areas for improvement, such as size mismatches, forward depth, and rim protection. The front office must carefully consider whether to make moves to address these issues or maintain the current chemistry.
The recent success under Doug Christie may have saved jobs in the front office and alleviated some of the pressure to make desperate moves. Now, any potential trades can be approached from a position of strength, focusing on taking the next step rather than merely staying afloat.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Kings’ recent success and potential trade scenarios, 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 impressive return from injury
• Doug Christie’s rotation management in recent games
• Preview of upcoming matchup against the Milwaukee Bucks
