Matt George here, the host of the daily Locked On Kings podcast, with your daily Locked On Kings newsletter. Each day we bring you the biggest stories about the Kings and the NBA, including the hottest links to other stories you need to read. Plus, Josh Lloyd delivers daily fantasy notes to crush your league.
December 8th marks the beginning of what I like to call the Kevin Huerter Sixth Man of the Year campaign (joking...kinda). The Sacramento Kings have been on a roll, scoring 140 points in back-to-back games, and Huerter’s performance off the bench has been a key factor. Last night against the Utah Jazz, the Kings dominated with a 141-97 victory, and Huerter was nothing short of spectacular.
Kevin Huerter’s Impact
Huerter’s transition from a starter to a bench player has been rocky at times, but his recent performances have been nothing short of impressive. Against the Jazz, he scored 26 points, shooting 10 of 14 from the field and 6 of 9 from beyond the arc. His ability to come off the bench and provide instant offense has been a game-changer for the Kings. Huerter’s confidence is evident in his play, and while he may not be thrilled about losing his starting spot, he has embraced his new role with vigor.
The Kings’ strategy of staggering their rotation means Huerter still plays alongside key players like De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis. This familiarity allows him to thrive, and his role as a catalyst for the second unit’s offense is crucial. Huerter’s recent stats—averaging 15 points per game with a 57% field goal percentage and 50% from three-point range over the last four games—highlight his importance to the team’s success.
Sacramento Kings’ Recent Success
The Kings’ recent stretch of games has been impressive, with a 3-1 record over the last four games. They’re averaging 127 points per game, and their three-point shooting has been a significant factor, with 60 threes made at a 41.9% success rate. This offensive explosion has been complemented by solid defense, holding opponents to 107.7 points per game and improving their three-point defense.
The Kings’ ability to maintain high energy and consistent play, regardless of their opponent, is a testament to their growth. Their recent performances have been about controlling what they can and executing their game plan effectively. The Kings have struggled against under .500 teams in the past, but their recent victories show a team that is learning to handle business against all opponents.
Huerter’s role as a “flamethrower” off the bench is vital. His primary responsibility is to score, but he also contributes with rebounds, assists, and defense. The Kings need Huerter to be a volume shooter, similar to a Kyle Korver or Jamal Crawford, providing offensive energy that can change the game’s momentum.
For more insights and a deeper dive into Kevin Huerter’s role and the Sacramento Kings’ recent performances, tune into the Locked On Kings podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Kings Podcast:
- DeMar DeRozan’s integration into the Kings’ lineup
- Trade interest in John Collins and potential deal scenarios
- Sacramento Kings’ defensive improvements and strategies
- Upcoming schedule and practice opportunities for the Kings
Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) looks on from the bench against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the fourth period at Chase Center. | David Gonzales/David Gonzales-Imagn Images
For all its advancements, from athlete autonomy down to the way the game itself gets played, the NBA hasn’t managed to solve one of its most nagging longevity problems: that all dynasties are destined to fall apart.
Maybe it’s their inherent weight. That a handful of stars stuck together force an unstable gravity not meant to last. Maybe it’s the strain that every relationship faces — but sped up in the NBA uniquely accelerated time signature — as time goes by and people, their circumstance, change. It could be egos, or the financial practicalities of keeping an expensive roster together; it might be because of duelling timelines and the reality that no matter how good, no team at this level can put off development of future rosters forever.
Whatever it was for dynasties of the past, now dusted, it’s a combination of everything for these current Warriors.
Whether you viewed it as a culture loss or reset, Klay Thompson’s departure to the Mavericks was the first chip in this Golden State dynasty’s foundation. Certainly, Thompson’s absence meant more room for next-gen talent of Jonathan Kuminga and Brandin Podziemski to flourish on the floor. It also forced a twosome in leadership between Steph Curry and Draymond Green, versus the triangular model the former Splash Brother lent, though Curry’s shouldered more of the directional responsibilities this season and the strain is beginning to show.
Katie Heindl is a credentialed NBA and WNBA writer, her bylines have appeared with The New York Times Magazine, SLAM, The Athletic, Yahoo Sports, Dime, Rolling Stone, among others. She writes the bestselling Substack, Basketball Feelings and is working on a book of the same name.
Home and Away
Analysis Jonathan Kuminga makes his case with a career-best night of 33 points. (Defector)
Biz NBA Trade Deadline eligibility: These 85 players can be traded as of December 15. (ESPN)
Milestones Chris Paul surpasses Jason Kidd for 2nd in career NBA assists. (NBA.com)
Trade Five Sacramento Kings players may hold surprising value in the trade market this season, potentially aiding in strategic roster adjustments. Explore the trade potentials for a deeper understanding of their market value.
Milestone In a historic night, the Kings dominated the Jazz with a 141-97 victory, marking a significant achievement for the team. Celebrate this milestone in Kings’ history. (Sports Illustrated)
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Fantasy Cheat Sheet
Joel Embiid Returns Sunday - All The Fantasy Basketball Impact
Dec 8, 2024; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) smiles during the second half of a basketball game against the Chicago Bulls at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images | Kamil Krzaczynski/Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
Joel Embiid’s Return and Fantasy Implications
As the NBA season unfolds, Joel Embiid’s return to the court has been a focal point for fantasy basketball enthusiasts. Embiid, despite being on a minutes restriction, delivered an impressive performance with 31 points and 12 rebounds. However, his recurring knee issues remain a concern for fantasy managers. The potential for swelling and soreness could lead to more missed games, making him a risky asset. While his numbers are undeniably strong, the uncertainty surrounding his health suggests a cautious approach for those considering him in trades or drafts.
Philadelphia 76ers vs. Chicago Bulls: Key Performances
The Philadelphia 76ers’ clash with the Chicago Bulls highlighted several noteworthy performances. Tyrese Maxey stepped up significantly, posting 25 points, 11 rebounds, and 14 assists. His ability to thrive alongside Embiid is crucial for the 76ers’ success and offers a promising outlook for fantasy managers. On the Bulls’ side, Zach LaVine’s resurgence with 30 points and six triples was a standout, especially after a dip in usage in previous games. However, Nikola Vučević's recent struggles, with only 13 points in consecutive games, raise questions about his role and effectiveness moving forward.
The game also shed light on the fluctuating roles within the Bulls’ lineup. Ayo Dosunmu, who recently had a breakout game, saw his production dip with the return of key players. This pattern of inconsistency is a reminder of the volatility in fantasy basketball, where player value can shift rapidly based on team dynamics and injuries.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Fantasy Basketball Podcast:
- Analysis of Tyrese Maxey’s performance and future potential
- Zach LaVine’s resurgence and its impact on the Bulls
- The role of Ayo Dosunmu in the Bulls’ lineup
- Injury updates and their implications for fantasy rosters
- Strategies for managing player rotations and streaming options
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Kings podcasts.
Turns Out, When the Sacramento Kings Make Shots, They Win Games Matt George breaks down the Sacramento Kings’ 140-113 win in San Antonio, where the shots were falling, the sharpshooters went off, and Keon Ellis’ defense calmed everyone down.
The Sacramento Kings Offense Lets Them Down Again Matt George reacts to another disappointing offensive performance, costing the Kings a very winnable game in Memphis.
The Sacramento Kings FIGHT BACK to Earn a Needed Victory Matt George breaks down the Sacramento Kings’ 120-111 win over the Houston Rockets, where Sacramento didn’t back down from Houston’s chippiness & physicality, beating them at their own game
