Basketball can be a straightforward game. If you can’t make shots, you’re likely not going to win. This has been the Sacramento Kings’ reality, as their shooting woes have become a persistent issue. The recent 116-96 loss to the San Antonio Spurs highlighted these struggles, with the Kings shooting a dismal 26% from beyond the arc. This isn’t an isolated incident; it’s a season-long trend that has plagued the team.
Three-Point Defense and Offense Woes
The Kings’ inability to defend the three-point line is alarming. Opponents are consistently getting wide-open looks, akin to practice shots, and capitalizing on them. The Spurs, for instance, tied a franchise record with 22 made threes, a testament to the Kings’ defensive lapses. This isn’t just about one game; it’s a recurring theme. The Kings have allowed 19 or more threes in three of their 11 games, a statistic that ties them for the most in the NBA.
On the offensive end, the Kings are equally struggling. They have been outscored by nearly 15 points per game from three-point range. Despite generating decent looks, the shots aren’t falling. Players like Doug McDermott, Keegan Murray, and De’Aaron Fox are shooting well below their career averages. This isn’t a coaching issue; it’s a player execution problem. The Kings’ roster is filled with capable shooters, yet the results aren’t reflecting their potential.
Addressing the Shooting Slump
The Kings’ shooting slump can’t be attributed to tired legs or mental fatigue. These are professional athletes accustomed to the rigors of an NBA season. The issue lies in their inability to convert open looks into points. The team isn’t making excuses, and neither should we. Fox, despite playing with a taped-up hand, is expected to perform at a high level. If he’s on the court, the expectation is excellence.
The Kings’ coaching staff, led by Mike Brown, isn’t to blame for the shooting woes. The players are responsible for their performance on the court. The emphasis on defense hasn’t been at the expense of their shooting ability. If anything, the defensive focus should complement their offensive prowess, not hinder it.
The Kings need to find a way to break out of this shooting funk. They have the talent and the capability; it’s about execution and confidence. The upcoming home games present an opportunity to turn things around. The Golden 1 Center should be a fortress, a place where the Kings can rediscover their shooting touch and build momentum.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Kings’ shooting struggles, tune into the Locked On Kings podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Kings Podcast:
- Injury updates on key players
- Analysis of the Kings’ defensive strategies
- Upcoming game previews and expectations
- Fan reactions and social media highlights
