The Sacramento Kings have kicked off the season with a 1-2 record, transforming their early games into a blend of promising developments and areas that require attention. Despite being only three games into the new campaign, various statistics reveal notable trends that outline the Kings’ performance thus far.
One of the most pressing issues for the Kings has been their rebounding, averaging just 36.7 boards per game, which ties them with the Brooklyn Nets for the lowest in the NBA. This figure represents a stark decline from their average of 44.2 rebounds per game last season. So far, the Kings have been outrebounded significantly, with a margin of 148 to 110 across their first three contests. Their struggles in this regard were especially highlighted during the opening game when star player Domantas Sabonis was sidelined due to a hamstring injury. While he has made his return, the team continues to face challenges on the glass. However, the expected return of Keegan Murray from injury could bolster their efforts, as he is known to be the team’s second-best rebounder.
In addition to rebounding concerns, Sabonis’s assist numbers have also raised eyebrows. Over his first two games back, he has recorded only four assists, averaging just 2.0 assists per game compared to his previous season’s average of six assists per game, and even higher the year prior with 8.2 assists per contest. This decline suggests potential disruptions in the team’s offensive flow, making it vital for his teammates to improve their shooting efficiency. Notably, Sabonis’s potential assists per game have also fallen to 6.0, down from 9.5 last season.
On a brighter note, the Kings’ three-point shooting has been impressive, currently standing at 41.4%, placing them among the top sharpshooters in the league. They’ve also done well defensively, allowing opponents to shoot just 31.0% from beyond the arc, indicating a positive shift in their defensive strategy. Malik Monk has emerged as a standout performer, making 12 of his 19 three-point attempts for an astounding 63.2% accuracy. Russell Westbrook has contributed as well, hitting five of his ten attempts from three-point range.
Overall, while the Kings have encountered some early-season hurdles, their strong shooting from three-point territory offers a glimmer of hope. If Sacramento can enhance their rebounding efforts and improve the assist dynamics, they could become a formidable competitor as the season progresses.