- Here We Reign - Kings pull out close wins, beat OKC (43-34)

January Summary
Grizzlies grinding ahead


The Grizzlies were 6th in the conference at the start of January and were looking just mediocre successful playoff runs in the past few seasons. But a team that plays defense like Memphis should never be counted out. The Grizz have won 10 straight games to close the month and now find themselves third in the conference. Memphis is just .5 games back of #2 New Orleans and now seem to be the favorites to chase down the Thunder's 4.5 game lead for first in the West. The Grizzlies' improved offense as of late has a lot to do with their winning streak, and much of the credit for the offense should go to Wilson Chandler. The offseason signing is averaging over 15 points a night and securing 6.6 rebounds, giving the team a much-needed offensive option aside from their frontcourt of Randolph and Gasol. Mike Conley has settled into a comfortable role while scoring less, averaging a career-best 7.9 APG and shooting over 47% from the field. With a better balance, more offense versatility, and the same defensive focus, the Grizzlies are reminding people that they are still contenders in a tough Western Conference.



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For the latest Kings
news, blogs, interviews,
and highlights.Kings Month in Review

Inconsistent defense still a problem


The Kings have been an offense force this season. This was not necessarily expected, but their combination of half-court dominance and ability to run the break with Rudy Gay, Ben McLemore, Quincy Acy, and Derrick Williams results in a team that is putting up over 102 a night. But they are still allowing 104.1 to opponents. Somehow they are over .500 while having a negative differential, but the defense needs to improve if the Kings hope to return to the postseason this year. In particular, they struggle with managing penetration and recently had an embarrassing stretch of allowing five straight opponents a 30+ point scorer (I. Thomas (OKC) 31, B. Jennings (DET) 34, K. Thompson (GS) 38, D. Derozan (TOR) 33, C. Anthony (NYK) 48). The team hoped that the PG switch they made would help that issue, but the results have been mixed. In the 5 games since starting Martin, the Kings have allowed 101.6 PPG. The numbers are better, but still unproven. 5 games is a small sample size and they still allowed some good performances from opposing guards. Mike Conley, currently averaging just 14.3 PPG, scored 31 against the Kings. Jrue Holiday topped his 13.1 PPG average with a 27 point effort. If the Kings want to continue their upward momentum towards sustained success, their defense has to continue to improve. They have made some defense improvement since last season but more is definitely needed.

Underrated rookie proves his worth in NY
Kings: 109
Knicks: 102


Derrick George was tasked with slowing Melo and gave a good account of himself

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 23 PTS - 12 REB - 8/14 FG - 7/8 FT
Quincy Acy: 15 PTS - 5 REB - 6/7 FG - 3/3 3PT FG
Derrick Favors: 15 PTS - 12 REB - 4 STL - 6/10 FG - 3/3 FT
Rudy Gay: 14 PTS - 6/8 FG - 2/2 FT
Julio Martin: 13 PTS - 7 REB - 7 AST - 5/11 FG - 3/4 FT

New York Knicks Top Performers
Tim Hardaway Jr.: 20 PTS - 4 AST - 8/11 FG - 4/5 3PT FG
Carmelo Anthony: 19 PTS - 4 REB - 5 AST - 9/22 FG - 1/1 FT
Enes Kanter: 16 PTS - 7 REB - 7/12 FG - 2/3 FT
J.R. Smith: 11 PTS - 5/11 FG - 1/3 3PT FG
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Kings make just one three, lose close game to Pistons
Pistons: 91
Kings: 90

Detroit Pistons Top Performers
Andre Drummond: 20 PTS - 13 REB - 8/14 FG - 4/9 FT
Brandon Jennings: 13 PTS - 6 AST - 3/11 FG - 3/8 3PT FG - 4/5 FT
Wesley Matthews: 10 PTS - 4 REB - 3/6 FG - 2/3 3PT FG - 2/2 FT
Greg Monroe: 8 PTS - 4 REB - 2/10 FG - 4/8 FT

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Rudy Gay: 22 PTS - 9 REB - 8/11 FG - 1/1 3PT FG - 5/5 FT
Demarcus Cousins: 18 PTS - 16 REB - 4 AST - 4 STL - 7/21 FG - 4/6 FT
Derrick Favors: 14 PTS - 7 REB - 7/12 FG
Quincy Acy: 11 PTS - 5 REB - 3/6 FG - 5/6 FT
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Kings ride Cousins, rebounding to win
Kings: 111
Celtics: 93

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 24 PTS - 17 REB - 9/13 FG - 6/9 FT
Ben McLemore: 18 PTS - 3 REB - 7/10 FG - 3/4 3PT FG - 1/2
Reggie Jackson: 14 PTS - 7 AST - 4/15 FG - 1/6 3PT FG - 5/6 FT
Rudy Gay: 12 PTS - 4 AST - 4/6 FG - 2/2 3PT FG - 2/2 FT

Boston Celtics Top Performers
Avery Bradley: 28 PTS - 8 AST - 12/22 FG - 3/8 3PT FG - 1/3 FT
Thomas Jackson: 16 PTS - 7/14 FG - 2/3 3PT FG
Jared Sullinger: 16 PTS - 9 REB - 6/7 FG - 4/4 FT
Kelly Olynyk: 7 PTS - 10 REB - 1/5 FG - 5/7 FT
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Kings start slow, struggle throughout in Portland
Trailblazers: 124
Kings: 105

Portland Trailblazers Top Performers
Lamarcus Aldridge: 33 PTS - 14 REB - 16/20 FG - 1/3 FT
Damian Lillard: 29 PTS - 11 AST - 10/16 FG - 4/8 3PT FG - 5/7 FT
Nicolas Batum: 15 PTS - 5 AST - 6/12 FG - 2/5 3PT FG - 1/4 FT
C.J. McCollum: 12 PTS - 6 AST - 4/12 FG - 1/3 3PT FG - 3/4 FT

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Ben McLemore: 28 PTS - 11/16 FG - 2/4 3PT FG - 4/5 FT
Demarcus Cousins: 17 PTS - 14 REB - 7/15 FG - 3/7 FT - 46 MIN
Rudy Gay: 16 PTS - 3 REB - 6/10 FG - 2/3 3PT FG - 2/2 FT
Julio Martin: 13 PTS - 10 AST - 5/8 FG - 1/2 3PT FG - 2/2 FT
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Cousins delivers in crunch time to top Mavs
Kings: 97
Mavericks: 96

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 29 PTS - 7 REB - 12/23 FG - 5/5 FT
Rudy Gay: 16 PTS - 8 REB - 7/16 FG - 2/2 FT
Derrick Favors: 14 PTS - 6/11 FG - 2/2 FT
Reggie Jackson: 11 PTS - 5 REB - 7 AST - 3/7 FG - 1/3 3PT FG - 4/4 FT
Julio Martin: 10 PTS - 5 AST - 4/8 FG - 1/2 3PT FG - 1/2 FT

Dallas Mavericks Top Performers
Josh Norman: 17 PTS - 6/15 FG - 1/1 3PT FG - 4/4 FT
Dirk Nowitzki.: 16 PTS - 8 REB - 4/14 FG - 8/9 FT
Jae Crowder: 13 PTS - 6 REB - 4/5 FG - 1/1 3PT FG - 4/5 FT
Al-Farouq Aminu: 11 PTS - 9 AST - 4/5 FG - 1/1 3PT FG - 2/2 FT
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Rockets duo shines against Sacramento
Rockets: 108
Kings: 102

Houston Rockets Top Performers
Houston Rockets: 30 PTS - 17 REB - 11/16 FG - 8/11 FT
]James Harden: 27 PTS - 9 REB - 7 AST - 10/18 FG - 5/10 3PT FG - 2/3 FT
Troy Daniels: 12 PTS - 4/6 FG - 4/6 3PT FG
Trevor Ariza: 11 PTS - 5 REB - 3/7 FG - 5/6 FT

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Ben McLemore: 24 PTS - 9/13 FG - 3/6 3PT FG - 3/4 FT
Demarcus Cousins: 18 PTS - 8 REB - 7/14 FG - 4/6 FT
Quincy Acy: 12 PTS - 9 REB - 6/9 FG
Julio Martin: 11 PTS - 8 AST - 5/8 FG - 1/2 FT
Derrick Favors: 10 PTS - 14 REB - 4/8 FG - 2/4 FT
--------------------------------------------------------------------

NBA Notes:
Hornets win 5th straight, now 34-20 overall.
Sixers lose 5th straight, now 11-43 overall.

NBA Injury Updates:

NBA Transactions:

Last edited by Vespasian92 on Sat Apr 11, 2015 9:19 am, edited 1 time in total.

All-Star Weekend 2016

Rising Stars Challenge Invitees

Team Shaq:
Starters:
Allen Montgomery (DEN) - Marcus Smart (BOS) - Darius Thompson (WAS) - Julius Randle (LAL) - Terrence Fields (MIN)

Reserves:
Julio Martin (SAC)
Jordan Adams (MEM)
Jordan Sanders (ATL)
Stacey Stafford (CLE)
Rudy Barnes (HOU)

Team Chuck:
Starters:
Byron Knight (PHI) - Dante Exum (UTA) - Jabari Parker (MIL) - Andrew Wiggins (MIN) - Joel Embiid (PHI)

Reserves:
Shabazz Napier (MIA)
Thomas Jackson (BOS)
Bojan Bogdanovic (BKN)
Benjamin Taylor (PHX)
Lucas Nogueira (TOR)

All-Star Saturday

Sprite Slam Dunk

Winner: Sean Washburn (PHI)
2nd: Byron Knight (PHI)
3rd: Byron Hughes (POR)
4th: Lyle Sanders (IND)

Foot Locker 3PT Shootout

Winner: Tim Hardaway Jr. (NYK)
2nd: Wesley Matthews (DET)
3rd: Stephen Curry (GS)
4th: Jabari Parker (MIL)
5th: Paul George (IND)
6th: Kyle Lowry (TOR)

NBA All-Star Game 2015

Western Conference

West Starters:
Russell Westbrook (OKC) - James Harden (HOU) - Anthony Davis (NOP) - Demarcus Cousins (SAC) - Dwight Howard (HOU)

Reserves:
Damian Lillard (POR)
Kobe Bryant (LAL)
Kawhi Leonard (SA)
Lamarcus Aldridge (POR)
Stephen Curry (GS)
Marc Gasol (MEM)
Rajon Rondo (DAL)
Ty Lawson (DEN)

Eastern Conference:

East Starters:
Derrick Rose (CHI) - Kyrie Irving (CLE) - Lebron James (CLE) - Carmelo Anthony (NY) - Paul George (IND)

Reserves:
Kyle Lowry (TOR)
Demar Derozan (TOR)
Jabari Parker (MIL)
Kevin Love (CLE)
Michael Carter-Williams (PHI)
Goran Dragic (ORL)
Kemba Walker (CHA)
Al Horford (ATL)

2 rookie Byrons? 2k is cheesing again.

PS: Do you use any sweetfx?

Looks interesting enough to follow.

Like the clean presentation style, looks pro and is easy to read.

Only thing I don't understand is some of the trades at the start.

Trade Deadline Deals
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Bosh returns to Toronto after Heat breakup

Miami Heat trade: Chris Bosh - Luol Deng
Toronto Raptors trade: Amir Johnson - Lucas Nogueira

The departure of Lebron ended the Big 3 era in Miami and things have gone downhill in South Beach since then. The Heat added Luol Deng to try and stay competitive, but, even in the Eastern Conference, find themselves well out of the top-8 and the playoff picture. Injuries to Dwayne Wade haven't helped matters and the Heat seem ready to hit the reset button. In an emotional return, Chris Bosh goes back to Toronto in exchange for Amir Johnson and young prospect Lucas Nogueira. Also included in Miami's salary dump was Luol Deng. As an incredibly consistent veteran who plays both ends, Deng is far more than your average trade throw-in. The reunion of the Boshtrich and the Raptors gives Toronto a team with enough firepower to reach the Finals. Kyle Lowry, Demar Derozan, Chris Bosh, Jonas Valanciunas, Luol Deng, Terrence Ross, Patrick Patterson, Greivis Vasquez, Lou Williams, the list goes on. Add Tyler Hansbrough and the Raptors have arguably the deepest 10 in the league. The Raptors will need that depth though to solidify their playoff position. Chicago has a 12 game lead in the Eastern Conference, with 2nd place Detroit, 3rd place Charlotte, and 4th place Indiana not considered legitimate title contenders. Toronto and Cleveland are the biggest threats to Chicago, and both active on deadline day to try and improve upon their current 5th and 6th seeds, respectively.

Miami sheds plenty of salary in the deal in addition to getting younger. Johnson is 28 and still has plenty of productive basketball ahead of him, but the real prize was Nogueira. The Brazilian 7-footer earned some playing time with Toronto this season and put up some very efficient numbers in his 17 minutes a night. An athletic rebounder and rim-protector who happens to be shooting 59% from the floor and just 22 years old is someone the Heat are interested in developing. Johnson and Nogueira project to the starting frontcourt in Miami.
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Heat continue to blow it up, send Lebron some old friends

Miami Heat trade: Udonis Haslem - Chris Andersen
Cleveland Cavaliers trade: Anderson Varejao - 2017 2nd Round Draft Selection

The rebuild continues in Miami, sending the 37-year-old Andersen and the 35-year-old Haslem to Cleveland for Anderson Varejao's $4.45M contract. Varejao has a team option for next season, with the Heat will almost certainly decline. Very few trades could have involved Varejao and still gotten Lebron's approval, but this might be one of them. With the arrival of Timofey Mozgov last season, Varejao's role had decreased significantly. Adding both Haslem and the Birdman gives the Cavaliers two reliable veterans in a frontcourt that was very thin at times, including giving some crucial minutes to rookie Stacey Stafford. For a contender like Cleveland, surrounding their Big 3 with veterans with playoff experience is clearly more important than youth development, and Lebron's Miami connection with the two new arrivals doesn't hurt either.
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Bulls not satisfied, swap McDermott for Harris

Chicago Bulls trade: Doug McDermott - E'Twaun Moore
Orlando Magic trade: Tobias Harris - Gerald Green

With the Raptors and Cavaliers both making moves to try and threaten Chicago's cruise to the Finals, the Bulls chose to not stand idly by. With the small forward position their main area of need, they swapped shooting star Doug McDermott with versatile swingman Tobias Harris. The trade is being heralded as a resounding win for Chicago, as Harris is actually younger than McDermott despite having 3 more years of NBA experience. More experienced, a superior defender, and with an ability to create his own shot, Harris checks all the boxes for the Bulls. Adding Gerald Green to a reserve unit that features Nikola Mirotic, Pau Gasol, and Kirk Hinrich leaves them in the two-team argument with Toronto for the deepest bench. Their experiment with Ben Gordon last season, who was ironically acquired from the Magic, did not work out as planned. Gordon has not appeared on the court at all this season. With Green, the Bulls have an explosive compliment off the bench to the consistent production of Gasol and Hinrich.

The Magic simply needed more shots for Nikola Vucevic, Goran Dragic, Victor Oladipo, and the rapidly-improving Aaron Gordon, and Harris was sent away as the scapegoat. McDermott fits in a 5-man lineup with those players much better than Harris, which was clearly Orlando's thinking. E'Twaun Moore returns to Orlando where he found his rhythm in the NBA in 2012-13, playing 75 games at 22.4 MPG for the Magic.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Nets, Mavs swap point guards

Brooklyn Nets trade: Jarrett Jack - 2017 2nd Round Draft Selection
Dallas Mavericks trade: Raymond Felton - 2016 2nd Round Draft Selection

With a massive overabundance of point guards, the Mavericks expectedly sent one of them away at the deadline. Unfortunately, they got one back in exchange. Raymond Felton headed to Brooklyn in exchange for Jarrett Jack, but the Mavericks still have Rondo, Jameer Nelson, Devin Harris, Gal Mekel, rookie Calbert Townsend, and now Jack all capable of manning the point. However, Jack's contract expires this season while Dallas rid themselves of Felton's 2 year deal. Felton has played very poorly this season as well, shooting horrific percentages of 25% and 12%. To compare, Jack is shooting 46% and 45% from downtown this season. The Mavericks are having a poor season though, with their 2nd round pick projected as the 34th overall right now. The Nets need to hit a home run with that pick for the trade to be a positive one.
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2 rookie Byrons? 2k is cheesing again.

Ha. Knight is actually over 80 overall already. MCW's going to lose the starting role in Philly this offseason I'm sure. I actually thought about trading for MCW as the defensive playmaker I need, but that was before my rookie started playing pretty well and made things interesting.

Looks interesting enough to follow.

Like the clean presentation style, looks pro and is easy to read.

Only thing I don't understand is some of the trades at the start.

Thanks. If you mean Reggie Jackson and John Henson on my team at the start, that's from me trying to continue as best I can from my 2k14 roster. Other than getting the trade value of a draft pick twice (having both Stauskas and Henson), it has worked out fairly well.

Wow, Miami traded good players for... shitty ones? wtf

Miami would never trade Haslem, doesn't matter how shit they are.

Wow, Miami traded good players for... shitty ones? wtf

Yeah, well I didn't initiate any of those trades. At my last trade deadline, the CPU teams barely traded anybody so I thought I might need to make them do a trade or two. But the 'do you approve' box popped up and I saw Bosh going to Toronto and I thought it was too perfect a story to pass by. I'd have made Toronto give up something more, but Deng isn't playing great in my story and Nogueira actually has a few nice ratings now with the new development system in 2k15. It might not be as bad as it looks now for Miami assuming they use their cap space in FA which 2k is usually good at making teams do that, just not always wisely

Miami would never trade Haslem, doesn't matter how shit they are.

Ikr? That's the kind of thing 2k trade logic can't replicate.

McLemore, Gay both struggle against Pelicans
Pelicans: 98
Kings: 91

New Orleans Pelicans Top Performers
Anthony Davis: 19 PTS - 17 REB - 8/15 FG - 3/4 FT
Eric Gordon: 17 PTS - 3 REB - 3 AST - 6/10 FG - 3/5 3PT FG - 2/2 FT
Ryan Anderson: 16 PTS - 5/13 FG - 2/7 3PT FG - 4/4 FT
Tyreke Evans: 16 PTS - 9 AST - 5/8 FG - 2/2 3PT FG

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Ben McLemore: 16 PTS - 3 REB - 4/12 FG - 2/6 3PT FG - 6/7 FT
Rudy Gay: 13 PTS - 5 REB - 4/15 FG - 0/4 3PT FG - 5/8 FT
Derrick Favors: 12 PTS - 8 REB - 5/9 FG - 2/2 FT
Demarcus Cousins: 10 PTS - 11 REB - 5/11 FG
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Splash Bros have 53 in win
Warriors: 122
Kings: 104


Kostas Lekic's breakout in the second half of the season has continued to brighten his NBA future as a shooter

Golden State Warriors Top Performers
Stephen Curry: 29 PTS - 11 AST - 10/20 FG - 4/9 3PT FG - 5/6 FT
Klay Thompson: 24 PTS - 4 REB - 6 AST - 10/16 FG - 3/6 3PT FG - 1/2 FT
Harrison Barnes: 18 PTS - 9 REB - 7/12 FG - 2/3 3PT FG - 2/2 FT
Marreese Speights: 15 PTS - 10 REB - 7/11 FG - 1/2 FT

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 21 PTS - 15 REB - 5/13 FG - 11/11 FT
Ben McLemore: 19 PTS - 7/17 FG - 2/8 3PT FG - 3/4 FT
Kostas Lekic: 16 PTS - 6/10 FG - 4/7 3PT FG - 20 MIN
Rudy Gay: 15 PTS - 3 REB - 6/10 FG - 1/2 3PT FG - 2/2 FT
Derrick Favors: 12 PTS - 10 REB - 6/11 FG
--------------------------------------------------------------------

Spurs continue to struggle post-Duncan
Kings: 96
Spurs: 88


Ben McLemore and the Kings will likely get some criticism for this showboat slam as the game ended

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Ben McLemore: 22 PTS - 8/10 FG - 2/3 3PT FG - 4/5 FT
Demarcus Cousins: 20 PTS - 13 REB - 5 AST - 10/18 FG - 43 MIN
Rudy Gay: 16 PTS - 5 REB - 5 AST - 4 STL - 6/11 FG - 0/2 3PT FG - 4/4 FT
Julio Martin: 11 PTS - 5 AST - 5/11 FG - 1/2 FT

San Antonio Spurs Top Performers
Tony Parker: 18 PTS - 5 AST - 9/17 FG
Kawhi Leonard: 15 PTS - 7 REB - 5 AST - 6/9 FG - 3/3 3PT FG
Kevin Seraphin: 12 PTS - 10 REB - 6/13 FG
Manu Ginobli: 9 PTS - 7 AST - 3/8 FG - 1/5 3PT FG - 2/2 FT
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Kings get a nightmare flashback of Toronto Rudy
Rockets: 117
Kings: 93

Houston Rockets Top Performers
Trevor Ariza: 32 PTS - 13/22 FG - 3/5 3PT FG - 3/3 FT
Dwight Howard: 20 PTS - 14 REB - 9/12 FG - 2/4 FT
Terrence Jones: 15 PTS - 14 REB - 6/8 FG - 3/4 FT
James Harden: 12 PTS - 10 AST - 4/12 FG - 2/4 3PT FG - 2/2 FT

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 22 PTS - 9 REB - 9/16 FG - 4/6 FT
Rudy Gay: 12 PTS - 1 REB - 2 AST - 4/18 FG - 0/5 3PT FG - 4/4 FT
Ben McLemore: 12 PTS - 5 REB - 4/10 FG - 1/6 3PT FG - 3/3 FT
Derrick Favors: 9 PTS - 5 REB - 1/5 FG - 7/8 FT
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Kings beat Spurs for second time in a week
Kings: 114
Spurs: 106


Determined to not have two bad games in a row, Rudy Gay put on an offensive display in San Antonio

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Rudy Gay: 33 PTS - 6 REB - 11/17 FG - 3/4 3PT FG - 8/8 FT
Demarcus Cousins: 22 PTS - 10 REB - 8/15 FG - 6/6 FT
Ben McLemore: 21 PTS - 8/13 FG - 2/4 3PT FG - 3/3 FT
Julio Martin: 13 PTS - 9 AST - 5/9 FG - 1/3 3PT FG - 2/2 FT

San Antonio Spurs Top Performers
Manu Ginobli: 21 PTS - 6 AST - 9/13 FG - 1/3 3PT FG - 2/2 FT
Tony Parker: 16 PTS - 5 REB - 7 AST - 4 STL - 8/14 FG
Kevin Seraphin: 13 PTS - 7 REB - 6/11 FG - 1/2 FT
Kawhi Leonard: 11 PTS - 5 REB - 7 AST - 5/11 FG - 1/2 FT
Josh Smith: 7 PTS - 4 REB - 3/11 FG - 1/5 3PT FG
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D-Rose's healthy season continues, goes for 42 against Kings
Bulls: 89
Kings: 82

Chicago Bulls Top Performers
Derrick Rose: 42 PTS - 8 REB - 5 AST - 16/23 FG - 4/6 3PT FG - 6/6 FT
Nikola Mirotic: 13 PTS - 6 REB - 4/9 FG - 2/4 3PT FG - 3/4 FT
Pau Gasol: 10 PTS - 6 REB - 4 AST - 5/9 FG
Joakim Noah: 7 PTS - 7 REB - 4 AST - 3/12 FG - 1/2 FT

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 18 PTS - 9 REB - 6/22 FG - 6/6 FT
Rudy Gay: 18 PTS - 10 REB - 7/11 FG - 2/2 3PT FG - 2/2 FT
Derrick Favors: 16 PTS - 5 REB - 7/14 FG - 2/2 FT
Ben McLemore: 7 PTS - 5 REB - 5 AST - 3/9 FG - 1/3 3PT FG
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NBA Notes:
Pelicans win 7th straight, now 39-20 overall.
Rockets win 7th straight, now 37-22 overall.
Suns lose 7th straight, now 15-43 overall.

NBA Injury Updates:
Cavaliers F Hedo Turkoglu out 2-4 weeks with Broken Toe.

NBA Transactions:

--------------------------------------------------------------------


For the latest Kings
news, blogs, interviews,
and highlights.

McCallum agrees to contract extension at deadline



The Sacramento Kings have announced an agreement with G Ray McCallum on a 3yr/$11.89M contract extension through the 2018-19 season. The contract is frontloaded and the yearly salary descends from $4.15M next season to $3.78M in 2018-19. McCallum, 24, was drafted 36th overall in 2013 and has appeared in 168 games over the 2 1/2 seasons with the Kings. With his rookie contract set to expire, the Kings offered him an extension despite averaging his lowest MPG, PPG, and FG% of his three NBA seasons. His playing time this year has been inconsistent due to missing a month of action with an ankle injury and the emergence of promising point guard Julio Martin. McCallum is averaging 4.5 PPG and 3.0 APG on 14.5 MPG, shooting 37% from the field and 32% from three this season.

Last edited by Vespasian92 on Fri May 01, 2015 5:57 am, edited 1 time in total.

Cousins dominates in Minnesota
Kings: 110
Timberwolves: 101


There was nobody in a Timberwolves uniform that could stop Boogie

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 34 PTS - 18 REB - 14/17 FG - 6/8 FT
Ben McLemore: 15 PTS - 2 REB - 6/12 FG - 2/5 3PT FG - 1/1 FT
Rudy Gay: 12 PTS - 7 REB - 6/8 FG
Julio Martin: 12 PTS - 9 AST - 4/9 FG - 1/2 3PT FG - 3/3 FT - 7 TO (Career-High)

Minnesota Timberwolves Top Performers
Andrew Wiggins: 17 PTS - 6/12 FG - 5/5 FT
Terrence Fields: 15 PTS - 12 REB - 5/8 FG - 5/6 FT
Gorgui Dieng: 15 PTS - 14 REB - 6/10 FG - 3/3 FT
Monta Ellis: 12 PTS - 4 AST - 5/13 FG - 2/2 FT
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Thunder bench give OKC close win
Thunder: 113
Kings: 109

Oklahoma City Thunder Top Performers
Russell Westbrook: 23 PTS - 8 AST - 9/21 FG - 1/6 3PT FG - 4/4 FT
Jeremy Lamb: 19 PTS - 5 REB - 5 AST - 8/17 FG - 3/6 3PT FG
Isaiah Thomas: 17 PTS - 5 REB - 5 AST - 8/16 FG - 1/1 FT
Stephen Adams: 17 PTS - 5 REB - 8/12 FG - 1/1 FT
Mitch McGary: 10 PTS - 6 REB - 4/6 FG - 2/4 FT
Kevin Durant: DNP - Humerus Fracture

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Rudy Gay: 26 PTS - 4 REB - 11/25 FG - 3/8 3PT FG - 1/2 FT
Demarcus Cousins: 23 PTS - 20 REB - 9/15 FG - 5/6 FT
Julio Martin: 17 PTS - 7 AST - 7/11 FG - 1/2 3PT FG - 2/2 FT
Ben McLemore: 13 PTS - 5/13 FG - 3/6 3PT FG - 1/1 FT
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Kings smash Clips in L.A.
Kings: 125
Clippers: 97


Ben McLemore went up high to catch this lob from Rudy Gay

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 25 PTS - 9 REB - 4 STL - 3 BLK - 11/16 FG - 3/3 FT
Derrick Favors: 17 PTS - 14 REB - 4 BLK - 6/8 FG - 5/6 FT
Ben McLemore: 14 PTS - 6/13 FG - 2/5 3PT FG
Kostas Lekic: 14 PTS - 5/6 FG - 2/3 3PT FG - 2/2 FG - 11 MIN
Ray McCallum: 13 PTS - 3 AST - 4/5 FG - 2/2 3PT FG - 3/4 FT
Rudy Gay: 11 PTS - 4 REB - 6 AST - 3/10 FG - 1/4 3PT FG - 4/5 FT

Los Angeles Clippers Top Performers
Blake Griffin: 26 PTS - 12 REB - 13/22 FG
Deandre Jordan: 20 PTS - 7 REB - 10/13 FG - 0/5 FT
Chris Paul: 18 PTS - 4 AST - 6/10 FG - 4/6 3PT FG - 2/2 FT - 6 TO
Jared Dudley: 14 PTS - 5 REB - 6/8 FG - 2/4 3PT FG
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Boogie once again shines against Wolves
Kings: 108
Timberwolves: 100

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 24 PTS - 10 REB - 7/15 FG - 10/11 FT
Rudy Gay: 18 PTS - 11 REB - 7/22 FG - 4/4 FT
Derrick Favors: 15 PTS - 14 REB - 6/13 FG - 3/4 FT - 6 OFF REB
Ray McCallum: 13 PTS - 6 AST - 5/7 FG - 1/1 3PT FG - 2/2 FT - 19 MIN

Minnesota Timberwolves Top Performers
Terrence Fields: 20 PTS - 2 REB - 7/13 FG - 1/2 3PT FG - 5/6 FT
Monta Ellis: 15 PTS - 5/12 FG - 1/4 3PT FG - 4/6 FT
Andrew Wiggins: 15 PTS - 7 REB - 5/10 FG - 1/3 3PT FG - 4/4 FT
Ricky Rubio: 10 PTS - 7 REB - 7 AST - 4/6 FG - 2/3 3PT FG -
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Lillard drops 53 in blowout win
Trailblazers: 122
Kings: 104

Portland Trailblazers Top Performers
Damian Lillard: 53 PTS - 3 REB - 4 AST - 18/28 FG - 3/6 3PT FG - 14/14 FT
Lamarcus Aldridge: 20 PTS - 15 REB - 10/15 FG
C.J. McCollum: 16 PTS - 6 AST - 6/11 FG - 4/4 FT
Nicolas Batum: 15 PTS - 3 REB - 6/17 FG - 3/7 3PT FG

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Ben McLemore: 18 PTS - 7/12 FG - 1/2 3PT FG - 3/4 FT
Demarcus Cousins: 16 PTS - 11 REB - 6/15 FG - 4/5 FT
Ray McCallum: 14 PTS - 1 AST - 6/12 FG - 2/2 FT - 12 MIN
Rudy Gay: 13 PTS - 3 AST - 6/16 FG - 1/2 3PT FG
Kostas Lekic: 9 PTS - 3 REB - 3 AST - 3/5 FG - 1/2 3PT FG - 2/2 FT - 19 MIN
--------------------------------------------------------------------

NBA Notes:
Kevin Garnett announces plans to retire after this season.
Nuggets lose 6th straight, now 25-40 overall.
Celtics lose 7th straight, now 27-37 overall.

NBA Injury Updates:
Mavericks C Tyson Chandler out 6-8 weeks with Broken Ankle.

NBA Transactions:

For the latest Kings
news, blogs, interviews,
and highlights.

Kings neglecting one of their cornerstones
The sight of Derrick Favors calling for the ball goes unnoticed too often

The Kings pulled off what was considered by most to be a great trade in the offseason by acquiring Derrick Favors to place next to Demarcus Cousins. Favors' ability to produce points in his own right gave the Kings a frontcourt that should be able to create some kind of matchup advantage against most teams. The former 3rd overall pick has consistently brought rebounding and defense every night and not complained when he doesn't get a large number of touches offensively. But maybe he should. After all, getting more shot attempts for Favors and Ben McLemore was the primary reason the team made the change at point guard in the starting lineup. But the best argument for more touches is the effect it has on the efficiency of Demarcus Cousins.

Back on March 1st, Boogie dominated the Timberwolves with 34 and 18. Shooting 14/17 from the floor isn't something that happens every night, even for the best bigmen in the league. On that night, Derrick Favors had a decent 9 points and 8 rebounds, yet shot just 3/12. But those 12 attempts helped stop the defenders from rotating off of Derrick in the paint to help on Cousins.

Against OKC, Favors' mediocre 13 points on 4/11 FG and 5/8 FT were enough to free Cousins for a 23-20 night. Boogie shot 9/15 against the Thunder.

On Monday in L.A., the Kings routed the Clippers by 28. Favors was incredibly efficient in that game with a 17 point, 14 rebound effort with 4 blocks. He shot 6/8 from the floor and got to the line 6 times. Derrick proved he was a threat to score, and Cousins put up 25 on 11/16.

Which brings us to Thursday in Portland. Overshadowed by Damian Lillard's 53 points was the ease in which Aldridge put up a 20-15 game on 67% shooting. Aldridge never had to work defensively because Favors never touched the ball. Derrick was given just two shot attempts all night, even during the team's 17 point first quarter when nobody could find the basket for the Kings. And how did Boogie do? He shot just 6/15 from the floor on a below-average 16 points. Cousins even struggled in the team's previous game against Portland back in February. He was once again below his season average with 17 points on 7/15. Derrick only had 4 shot attempts that night.

And this trend hasn't just held true recently. The few nights this season when Cousins struggles with his shooting, Favors usually doesn't shoot the ball much. Granted, Memphis is probably the team that can best deal with a Cousins/Favors combination, but in December Cousins shot 2/19 from the floor against the Grizzlies. That was by far his worst shooting night of the season. Favors shot just 5 times.

Against Charlotte in December, Favors had only 6 shot attempts and Cousins went 5/15 in that game. 3 attempts for Derrick against Cleveland, a 5/14 night for Boogie. A 5/16 night in Detroit for Demarcus when Favors had 6 shots.

There are still nights when Cousins can get it done even with defenses doubling him, but whenever the secondary stars like Favors and Rudy Gay are threats to score, it makes the game that much easier for Boogie. But even aside from that, Derrick deserves more shots in his own right simply because of his offensive skill. On a different team without another elite post presence, Favors could be getting 12 or more shots a night, not to mention attempts that result in free throws. He is capable of contributing more than 11 points a night and the Kings have multiple reasons to give him a chance to.

All 5 starters score 17+ in Dallas
Kings: 117
Mavericks: 109


In a showdown with one of the elite playmaking guards, Julio Martin held his own

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 23 PTS - 15 REB - 9/18 FG - 5/8 FT
Ben McLemore: 19 PTS - 5 REB - 4 AST - 6/10 FG - 3/4 3PT FG - 4/4 FT
Rudy Gay: 19 PTS - 6 REB - 5/12 FG - 3/5 3PT FG - 6/6 FT
Derrick Favors: 18 PTS - 10 REB - 6/12 FG - 6/8 FT
Julio Martin: 17 PTS - 5 REB - 10 AST - 3 STL - 8/13 FG - 1/1 FT

Dallas Mavericks Top Performers
Dirk Nowitzki: 25 PTS - 5 REB - 10/14 FG - 1/2 3PT FG - 4/4 FT
Chandler Parsons: 25 PTS - 10/19 FG - 1/4 3PT FG - 4/4 FT
Josh Norman: 23 PTS - 9/17 FG - 2/8 3PT FG - 3/3 FT
Jameer Nelson: 14 PTS - 7 AST - 6/8 FG - 1/2 3PT FG - 1/2 FT
Rajon Rondo: 5 PTS - 7 REB - 13 AST - 2/9 FG - 1/2 FT
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Boogie wins battle against Dwight
Kings: 91
Rockets: 88

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 33 PTS - 10 REB - 13/19 FG - 7/7 FT
Ben McLemore: 17 PTS - 4 REB - 7 AST - 5/9 FG - 2/5 3PT FG - 5/5 FT
Derrick Favors: 10 PTS - 11 REB - 4/12 FG - 2/2 FT
Rudy Gay: 5 PTS - 9 REB - 0/10 FG - 5/8 FT

Houston Rockets Top Performers
James Harden: 18 PTS - 9 REB - 5 AST - 7/15 FG - 3/10 3PT FG - 1/2 FT
Dwight Howard: 15 PTS - 13 REB - 5 STL - 2 BLK - 5/12 FG - 5/6 FT
Rudy Barnes: 13 PTS - 7 REB - 3 BLK - 5/8 FG - 3/4 FT - 19 MIN
Jerryd Bayless: 9 PTS - 3 AST - 3/4 FG - 1/2 3PT FG - 2/2 FT
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Rudy leaves game in 4th, Kings fans worried
Kings: 112
Heat: 107


After releasing a baseline jumper, Rudy immediately reached for his knee and went down

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 26 PTS - 16 REB - 10/20 FG - 6/6 FT
Ben McLemore: 19 PTS - 4 REB - 5/10 FG - 3/7 3PT FG - 6/8 FT
Rudy Gay: 19 PTS - 3 REB - 8/13 FG - 3/3 FT
Derrick Favors: 14 PTS - 14 REB - 5/11 FG - 4/4 FT
Julio Martin: 8 PTS - 5 REB - 15 AST (Career-High) - 2/12 FG - 4/4 FT

Miami Heat Top Performers
Shabazz Napier: 29 PTS - 7 AST - 8/19 FG - 2/6 3PT FG - 11/12 FT
James Ennis: 16 PTS - 7/12 FG - 2/3 FT
Amir Johnson: 14 PTS - 7 REB - 6/8 FG - 1/2 3PT FG - 1/2 FT
Lucas Nogueira: 11 PTS - 11 REB - 5 BLK - 5/5 FG - 1/3 FT
Dwayne Wade: 10 PTS - 6 REB - 10 AST - 5/12 FG
--------------------------------------------------------------------

NBA Notes:
Pacers win 5th straight, now 43-24 overall.

NBA Injury Updates:

NBA Transactions:

For the latest Kings
news, blogs, interviews,
and highlights.

Rudy tears MCL, ruled out for playoffs
The worst fears of Kings fans and management alike were realized
When Rudy Gay landed awkwardly in the fourth quarter against Miami, the whole of the Sacramento faithful held their breath. Their star forward went down along the baseline, oblivious to the fact that the possession was continuing after a Demarcus Cousins rebound. The similarities in the appearance of Gay's injury to the infamous falls of Derrick Rose, Iman Shumpert, and Ricky Rubio had people preparing for the possibility of a severe ACL/MCL injury.

Following an evaluation of the injury, the Kings announced Rudy Gay suffered a Torn MCL in his left knee and will miss at least 3-4 months of action. He will not play in the remaining 14 games of the regular season nor the playoffs. The team hopes Rudy will be able to return for training camp at 100% next year, but in the short-term this is a massive blow to the Kings' playoff chances.

The Kings were hoping to take a positive step forward and advance to at least the second round this season, but without Gay their chances dropped dramatically. The Pacific division is a weak one this season thanks to down seasons from the Warriors (Who knew they would miss Draymond Green so much?) and Clippers (Injuries to CP3). The Kings are leading the division and will likely have a #4 seed come playoff time despite being 6th overall in the West.

Derrick Williams is expected to start the remaining games in place of Gay. Francisco Garcia, who hasn't played consistently since December 30th, will likely be called upon to help fill in with his shooting and veteran leadership.

Granted, even with Rudy the Kings weren't going to contend for a title. But an injury like this always raises questions about a player's long-term durability. These injuries can rob a player of his athleticism or at least make him hesitant mentally and take away his aggressiveness. Rudy's ability to glide to the basket and smooth extension on his jumpshot do rely on his physical tools to some extent, as does his finishing ability in the paint or on the break. If he shows up next season after a summer of rehab and finds his athleticism missing, what kind of player will he be? Certainly out of reach is the All-Star caliber level and his hopes of finally making it to the All-Star game. But can he still be productive? Is a 30-year-old Rudy Gay coming off a major injury somebody the Kings can continue to rely on as a #2 or #3 option behind Demarcus Cousins? All valid questions, and ones that the Kings might have to guess at the answers to in order to keep a playoff contender around Demarcus.

When it was on a roll, this sucks :/

Tough break for you guys.

You should bring in some more talents this offseason

Kings disinterested, uninspired without Rudy
Warriors: 129
Kings: 85

Golden State Warriors Top Performers
Stephen Curry: 27 PTS - 3 AST - 10/15 FG - 3/6 3PT FG - 4/4 FT
Klay Thompson: 18 PTS - 4 REB - 4 AST - 6/18 FG - 2/8 3PT FG - 4/4 FT
David Lee: 14 PTS - 6 REB - 7/10 FG
Harrison Barnes: 14 PTS - 4 REB - 5 AST - 5/8 FG - 1/3 3PT FG - 3/5 FT

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 18 PTS - 10 REB - 3/19 FG - 12/14 FT
Derrick Williams: 12 PTS - 5 REB - 4/10 FG - 1/2 3PT FG - 3/3 FT
Julio Martin: 10 PTS - 7 AST - 4/7 FG - 1/1 3PT FG - 1/4 FT
Ben McLemore: 10 PTS - 3 REB - 5/10 FG
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Rudy's absence shows defensively as well
Hornets: 119
Kings: 105

Charlotte Hornets Top Performers
Kemba Walker: 24 PTS - 12 AST - 9/20 FG - 3/9 3PT FG - 3/4 FT
Lance Stephenson: 22 PTS - 8/17 FG - 3/4 3PT FG - 3/6 FT
Michael Kidd-Gilchrist: 21 PTS - 9 REB - 10/12 FG - 1/1 FT
Al Jefferson: 10 PTS - 5 REB - 5/11 FG

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 20 PTS - 16 REB - 8/13 FG - 4/5 FT
Julio Martin: 16 PTS - 6 AST - 5/14 FG - 1/3 3PT FG - 5/7 FT
Derrick Williams: 15 PTS - 3 REB - 5/8 FG - 5/6 FT
Francisco Garcia: 15 PTS - 2 REB - 6/13 FG - 3/9 3PT FG
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Boogie totals career-best 8 blocks in much-needed win
Kings: 115
Grizzlies: 107


Demarcus Cousins' defensive improvements showed tonight against a Memphis team known for controlling the paint

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 28 PTS - 17 REB - 8 BLK (Career-High) - 11/18 FG - 6/7 FT
Derrick Williams: 21 PTS - 2 REB - 3 STL - 8/14 FG - 1/1 3PT FG - 4/4 FT
Julio Martin: 20 PTS - 8 AST - 9/13 FG - 2/4 3PT FG
Derrick Favors: 12 PTS - 8 REB - 5/9 FG - 2/3 FT

Memphis Grizzlies Top Performers
Mike Conley: 24 PTS - 13 AST - 8/15 FG - 4/7 3PT FG - 4/6 FT
Marc Gasol: 16 PTS - 7 REB - 7/16 FG - 2/2 FT
Wilson Chandler: 15 PTS - 6 REB - 6/9 FG - 2/4 3PT FG - 1/2 FT
Zach Randolph: 8 PTS - 4 REB - 4/9 FG
--------------------------------------------------------------------

Kings manage to hold off NBA's worst
Kings: 107
Sixers: 102


Derrick Williams' 'starter' aggressiveness showed itself once again en route to 10 free throws

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Ben McLemore: 20 PTS - 7/13 FG - 2/5 3PT FG - 4/4 FT
Demarcus Cousins: 20 PTS - 12 REB - 7/14 FG - 6/8 FT
Derrick Williams: 18 PTS - 3 REB - 4/10 FG - 10/10 FT
Derrick Favors: 11 PTS - 12 REB - 4/11 FG - 3/4 FT

Philadelphia 76ers Top Performers
Tony Wroten: 30 PTS - 6 AST - 14/29 FG - 2/5 3PT FG - 0/2 FT
Nerlens Noel: 18 PTS - 14 REB - 9/13 FG
Joel Embiid: 13 PTS - 8 REB - 5/10 FG - 3/5 FT
Byron Knight: 11 PTS - 3 REB - 3 AST - 5/9 FG - 1/3 3PT FG - 19 MIN
Michael Carter-Williams: 6 PTS - 7 REB - 10 AST - 3/7 FG
--------------------------------------------------------------------

NBA Notes:
Blazers lose 5th straight, now 33-39 overall.

NBA Injury Updates:
Knicks C Enes Kanter out 4-6 weeks with Knee Tendinitis.

NBA Transactions:

Strong nights from Cousins and Favors not enough
Nets: 100
Kings: 98

Brooklyn Nets Top Performers
Brook Lopez: 24 PTS - 5 REB - 9/11 FG - 6/8 FT
Brook Gordon: 18 PTS - 8 REB - 7/15 FG - 1/2 3PT FG - 3/5 FT
Bojan Bogdanovic: 15 PTS - 5/10 FG - 2/3 3PT FG - 3/5 FT
Deron Williams: 2 PTS - 11 AST - 1/9 FG

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Derrick Favors: 20 PTS - 10 REB - 9/14 FG - 2/3 FT
Demarcus Cousins: 19 PTS - 10 REB - 8/13 FG - 3/4 FT
Julio Martin: 18 PTS - 5 AST - 8/12 FG - 2/3 3PT FG
Ben McLemore: 9 PTS - 4/9 FG - 1/2 3PT FG
--------------------------------------------------------------------

Without Rudy, offense continues to struggle
Raptors: 98
Kings: 74

Toronto Raptors Top Performers
Chris Bosh: 20 PTS - 11 REB - 5/13 FG - 2/6 3PT FG - 8/9 FT
Kyle Lowry: 20 PTS - 8 REB - 9 AST - 6/12 FG - 3/7 3PT FG - 5/6 FT
Demar Derozan: 16 PTS - 6 REB - 7/13 FG - 1/2 3PT FG - 1/1 FT
Deron Williams: 10 PTS - 4 REB - 3/7 FG - 2/3 3PT FG - 2/4 FT

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Ben McLemore: 16 PTS - 4/11 FG - 0/4 3PT FG - 8/9 FT
Derrick Favors: 14 PTS - 3 REB - 6/12 FG - 2/2 FT
Ray McCallum: 13 PTS - 5 AST - 5/9 FG - 3/3 3PT FG - 21 MIN
Demarcus Cousins: 8 PTS - 12 REB - 3/7 FG - 2/2 FT - 26 MIN - 6 FLS
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Griffin has 29 in win, Jordan makes a three
Clippers: 110
Kings: 85

Los Angeles Clippers Top Performers
Blake Griffin: 29 PTS - 6 REB - 12/19 FG - 5/6 FT
Deandre Jordan: 19 PTS - 12 REB - 6/8 FG - 1/1 3PT FG - 6/11 FT
Darren Collison: 18 PTS - 7 REB - 4 AST - 6/7 FG - 2/3 3PT FG - 4/5 FT
Chris Paul: 17 PTS - 7 AST - 7/13 FG - 1/5 3PT FG - 2/2 FT

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 23 PTS - 4 REB - 8/15 FG - 7/9 FT
Ben McLemore: 19 PTS - 4 REB - 4 AST - 6/14 FG - 1/2 3PT FG - 6/6 FT
Derrick Favors: 13 PTS - 13 REB - 5/13 FG - 3/5 FT
Julio Martin: 11 PTS - 6 AST - 4/6 FG - 3/3 FT
--------------------------------------------------------------------

Rudy-less Kings beat Durant-less Thunder
Kings: 105
Thunder: 98

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 29 PTS - 8 REB - 11/20 FG - 7/11 FT
Ben McLemore: 26 PTS - 7/13 FG - 3/5 3PT FG - 9/9 FT
Derrick Favors: 21 PTS - 9 REB - 9/18 FG - 3/3 FT
Julio Martin: 5 PTS - 10 AST - 2/3 FG - 1/2 FT

Oklahoma City Thunder Top Performers
Russell Westbrook: 31 PTS - 6 REB - 5 AST - 12/19 FG - 1/4 3PT FG - 6/7 FT
Isaiah Thomas: 22 PTS - 6 AST - 9/14 FG - 4/7 3PT FG
Anthony Morrow: 10 PTS - 3/11 FG - 2/6 3PT FG - 2/2 FT - 18 MIN
Stephen Adams: 8 PTS - 2 REB - 3/6 FG - 2/2 FT
--------------------------------------------------------------------

Nuggets outrun Kings in Denver
Nuggets: 122
Kings: 95

Denver Nuggets Top Performers
Ty Lawson: 27 PTS - 11 AST - 11/21 FG - 2/3 3PT FG - 3/3 FT
Danilo Gallinari: 23 PTS - 8 REB - 11/19 FG - 1/5 3PT FG
Aaron Afflalo: 21 PTS - 8 REB - 7/13 FG - 1/3 3PT FG - 6/7 FT
J.J. Hickson: 10 PTS - 16 REB - 5/6 FG

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 20 PTS - 12 REB - 5 AST - 5 STL - 7/11 FG - 6/9 FT
Derrick Williams: 14 PTS - 3 REB - 7/13 FG
Ben McLemore: 14 PTS - 5 REB - 6/11 FG - 2/3 3PT FG
Kostas Lekic: 13 PTS - 5/9 FG - 3/5 3PT FG
Ray McCallum: 7 PTS - 7 AST - 3/5 FG - 1/1 3PT FG - 22 MIN
--------------------------------------------------------------------

NBA Notes:
Pacers win 7th straight, now 51-26 overall.

NBA Injury Updates:
Mavericks G Gal Mekel out 1-2 weeks with Sprained Wrist.

NBA Transactions:

Morris' late 3 not enough
Kings: 116
Suns: 114


As nice as it is to see Derrick Williams' strong play as a starter, it is just as frustrating to not see it when he comes off the bench

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 27 PTS - 14 REB - 8/13 FG - 11/12 FT
Derrick Williams: 19 PTS - 2 REB - 9/16 FG - 1/3 FT
Julio Martin: 17 PTS - 6 REB - 8 AST - 6/13 FG - 1/4 3PT FG - 4/5 FT
Kostas Lekic: 15 PTS - 4/10 3PT FG - 3/3 FT
Derrick Favors: 10 PTS - 8 REB - 3 BLK - 3/8 FG - 4/5 FT

Phoenix Suns Top Performers
T.J. Warren: 27 PTS - 6 REB - 13/20 FG - 1/2 3PT FG
Eric Bledsoe: 18 PTS - 11 AST - 7/18 FG - 4/6 FT
Marcus Morris: 15 PTS - 6/7 FG - 3/4 3PT FG - 18 MIN
Joel Richmond: 12 PTS - 5 REB - 6 AST - 6/14 FG
--------------------------------------------------------------------

Kings finish home and home with Suns
Kings: 106
Suns: 93

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Ben McLemore: 23 PTS - 6/10 FG - 5/5 3PT FG - 6/6 FT
Demarcus Cousins: 21 PTS - 9 REB - 10/15 FG - 1/2 FT
Derrick Favors: 16 PTS - 7 REB - 4 STL - 4 BLK - 4/11 FG - 8/10 FT
Reggie Jackson: 15 PTS - 5 REB - 5 AST - 4/8 FG - 2/3 3PT FG - 5/5 FT
Julio Martin: 13 PTS - 6 REB - 6 AST - 3/11 FG - 7/13 FT

Phoenix Suns Top Performers
Miles Plumlee: 14 PTS - 11 REB - 4/8 FG - 1/1 3PT FG - 5/8 FT
Eric Bledsoe: 14 PTS - 11 REB - 5 AST - 4/10 FG - 2/4 3PT FG - 4/5 FT
Markieff Morris: 11 PTS - 9 REB - 2/8 FG - 1/2 3PT FG - 6/8 FT
Joel Richmond: 11 PTS - 3 REB - 5/8 FG - 1/2 3PT FG
--------------------------------------------------------------------

3PT disparity telling in loss to Spurs
Spurs: 106
Kings: 99

San Antonio Spurs Top Performers
Tony Parker: 23 PTS - 4 AST - 10/16 FG - 2/5 3PT FG - 1/2 FT
Kevin Seraphin: 19 PTS - 12 REB - 9/12 FG - 1/2 FT
Manu Ginobli: 15 PTS - 4 AST - 6/13 FG - 3/4 FT
Cory Joseph: 14 PTS - 3 AST - 5/12 FG - 2/6 3PT FG - 2/2 FT

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Reggie Jackson: 16 PTS - 7 AST - 5/8 FG - 1/3 3PT FG - 5/5 FT
Demarcus Cousins: 15 PTS - 12 REB - 7/20 FG - 1/2 FT
Derrick Favors: 14 PTS - 9 REB - 5/8 FG - 4/5 FT
Derrick Williams: 13 PTS - 6 REB - 5/10 FG - 1/4 3PT FG - 2/2 FT
Julio Martin: 10 PTS - 6 AST - 4/7 FG - 1/3 3PT FG - 1/1 FT
--------------------------------------------------------------------

Cousins, Favors handle Denver inside
Kings: 110
Nuggets: 102

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 28 PTS - 13 REB - 13/24 FG - 2/2 FT
Derrick Favors: 19 PTS - 5 REB - 3 BLK - 6/14 FG - 7/9 FT
Julio Martin: 18 PTS - 11 AST - 6/9 FG - 2/2 3PT FG - 4/4 FT
Derrick Williams: 11 PTS - 2 REB - 4/5 FG - 1/1 3PT FG - 2/3 FT

Denver Nuggets Top Performers
Ty Lawson: 24 PTS - 8 AST - 9/16 FG - 3/6 3PT FG - 3/3 FT
Danilo Gallinari: 21 PTS - 7 REB - 5/9 FG - 3/4 3PT FG - 8/11 FT
J.J. Hickson: 12 PTS - 7 REB - 4/7 FG - 4/4 FT
Aaron Afflalo: 8 PTS - 4 REB - 3/13 FG - 2/2 FT
--------------------------------------------------------------------

Kings embarrassed in game 82
Lakers: 102
Kings: 81

Los Angeles Lakers Top Performers
Kobe Bryant: 20 PTS - 2 REB - 10/19 FG
Julius Randle: 14 PTS - 10 REB - 7/11 FG
Jeremy Lin: 13 PTS - 7 AST - 5/9 FG - 1/2 3PT FG - 2/2 FT
Nick Young: 12 PTS - 4 REB - 2/5 FG - 8/8 FT

Sacramento Kings Top Performers
Demarcus Cousins: 23 PTS - 10 REB - 7/13 FG - 9/11 FT
Ben McLemore: 12 PTS - 5/9 FG - 2/4 3PT FG
Derrick Favors: 12 PTS - 3 REB - 2 BLK - 6/13 FG
Ray McCallum: 9 PTS - 2 REB - 2/3 FG - 5/5 FT
Julio Martin: 6 PTS - 7 AST - 3/11 FG
--------------------------------------------------------------------

NBA Notes:

NBA Injury Updates:

NBA Transactions:

Did you get to the playoffs?

2015-16 Season Awards




Playoffs Preview

Western Conference Playoffs

(1) New Orleans Pelicans vs (8) Portland Trailblazers
A. Davis: 20.6 PPG, 11.0 RPG, 1.8 BPG vs D. Lillard: 26.7 PPG, 7.9 APG
After a strong season last year, the Pelicans returned even better. A more experience Anthony Davis, a healthy supporting cast of Holiday, Evans, and Anderson, and the influential addition of Draymond Green gave them a 56-win season and a tie with the Thunder for best overall record in the West. Considering their health, defense, and balanced offense, they are a legitimate threat to go deep in the postseason.

The Trailblazers suffered something of a drop-off after Wesley Matthews and Robin Lopez were salary cap casualties last offseason. Both went to Detroit and left Portland with holes in their starting lineup. C.J. McCollum and Myers Leonard filled in passably, but still lack the experience and the contributions necessary to see Portland past New Orleans. Damian Lillard and Lamarcus Aldridge will need to carry a disproportionate amount of the burden for the Blazers in order to push the Pelicans.

(2) Oklahoma City Thunder vs (7) Los Angeles Clippers
R. Westbrook: 25.7 PPG, 5.6 RPG, 8.0 APG vs B. Griffin: 22.0 PPG, 9.0 RPG
The 2-7 matchup is all about health. Russell Westbrook carried the Thunder while Kevin Durant was out with a Humerus Fracture, while Darren Collison has stepped in for Chris Paul, who only played 43 games this season and just 9 last year. Both stars are healthy entering the playoffs though and this should be a tight series in most of the matchups. Ibaka vs. Griffin, Westbrook vs. Paul, Thomas vs. Collison, and defensive bigs Adams vs. Jordan. The advantage that OKC has with Durant will likely be the deciding factor and OKC should move on through the Clippers if KD is 100%.

(3) San Antonio Spurs vs (6) Memphis Grizzlies
K. Leonard: 17.1 PPG, 7.5 RPG vs M. Gasol: 14.0 PPG, 8.5 RPG
In a matchup of defense and team play, the Spurs weathered the struggles of their first season without Duncan better than most expected. There were some speed bumps and stretches of bad play along the way, but here they are behind an improved season from Patty Mills, the smart signing of Kevin Seraphin, and a career year from Kawhi Leonard.

Memphis used the same formula of defense and team ball to reach the postseason. Offseason signing Wilson Chandler has been a valuable add. With multiple offensive options including Chandler and Conley next to Gasol and Z-Bo, Memphis has a fair shot against the Spurs. The emergence of youngsters Jarnell Stokes and Jordan Adams helps too. Adams is the team's leading scorer from the 2 guard at 15.9 PPG and Stokes has even taken some starts away from Zach Randolph, which is saying something.

(4) Sacramento Kings vs. (5) Houston Rockets
D. Cousins: 21.3 PPG, 12.7 RPG vs J. Harden: 26.0 PPG, 6.3 RPG, 6.4 APG
The Kings struggled to end the regular season, thanks in large part to losing Rudy Gay with an MCL injury. Rudy won't be back for the playoffs and Sacramento has to be concerned with their chances. They do have the 4th seed and home court despite only finishing 6th overall in the West thanks to a weak year from other Pacific division opponents (none of whom made the postseason). The Kings were without Ben McLemore entering the postseason last year and so still are yet to see their whole team healthy in the playoffs. Demarcus Cousins will need to continue to carry the load for the Kings to avoid being upset.

Houston has James Harden and Dwight Howard. Enough said. If Dwight can play up to his best level and slow Cousins enough, the Rockets should have a good chance in this series. Harden is out there scoring 26 a night as well.

Eastern Conference Playoffs

(1) Chicago Bulls vs (8) Wasington Wizards
D. Rose: 26.6 PPG, 9.0 APG vs J. Wall:16.0 PPG, 8.1 APG
The Bulls surprised everybody or nobody with their 67-win season, depending on how you look at it. D-Rose returned to 2010-11 form, and just like in 2011, took home the MVP. Rose simply had an incredible season with career highs all over the board while proving his health in all 82 games at an immense 39.6 MPG. Add Noah, Butler, Mirotic, and Gasol, and they have plenty of talent. But the Bulls aren't just top-heavy either. Thanks to smart moves in the past and a great trade with Orlando at this year's deadline, Chicago can also muster Taj Gibson, Kirk Hinrich, Samuel Dalembert, Tobias Harris, and Gerald Green off the bench. With their health and depth, it would be a huge disappointment if the Bulls fall short of at least the conference finals.

Nice job getting in Wizards, your reward is a series with the Bulls. Good luck avoiding a sweep. In all fairness, the Wizards have continued to develop their young core of Wall and Beal, and rookie 3rd overall pick Darius Thompson has stepped up extremely well as the small forward of the future next to the star backcourt. Thompson learned plenty from Paul Pierce this season, and with Pierce's eminent retirement this summer, Thompson has room to put up more than the 14.2 PPG he did this year. The future is bright, but the current matchup with Chicago probably won't be so pleasant.

(2) Indiana Pacers vs (7) Milwaukee Bucks
P. George: 25.3 PPG, 7.3 RPG, 5.3 APG vs Jabari Parker: 20.1 PPG, 6.4 RPG
It was the Paul George and C.J. Miles show in Indiana, with career years from both somehow being enough to carry them to a #2 seed. Aside from George and Miles, George Hill and maybe Roy Hibbert, the Pacers had nobody else contributing much. David West had a down year, C.J. Watson struggled to lead the bench, and reserve bigs Scola and Mahinmi didn't blow anybody away. That being said, they are here for a reason and will look to prove why.

Like Washington, they have a quality young team on the rise in the East. Jabari Parker looks like a star in the future, and other youngsters like Brandon Knight and Giannis Antekokounmpo project brightly as well. They added veteran Paul Millsap last offseason, who is looking more and more like the missing piece they needed. Even if they don't upset Indiana, but if they stay together and stay healthy the Bucks could make some noise in the future.

(3) Toronto Raptors vs (6) Cleveland Cavaliers
D. Derozan: 22.4 PPG, 3.9 RPG, 5.1 APG vs Lebron James: 22.8 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 5.5 APG
The big news in Toronto is the return of Chris Bosh to step into a deep lineup featuring Demar Derozan and Kyle Lowry. Like Chicago, their depth is a huge asset, with Valanciunas, Ross, Patterson, Vasquez, Williams, and Deng all supporting their star trio. The Raptors are in an interesting position and could make it to the conference finals easily, if they can survive Cleveland though.

After winning it all last year, the Cavs have gone through a bit of an identity crisis this year. Many seem to want more control and shots to go to Kyrie Irving and lessen the burden on Lebron. Irving put up career numbers of 23.7 and 7.6 while Lebron's scoring dropped to his lowest since his rookie season. That being said, they are both still superstars and, along with Kevin Love, can put on a show any night. They traded for some veteran depth in Udonis Haslem and Chris Andersen, who have been around the block, winning rings in Miami with Lebron.

(4) Charlotte Hornets vs (5) Detroit Pistons
K. Walker: 18.3 PPG, 8.0 APG vs A. Drummond: 13.7 PPG, 9.9 RPG, 1.3 BPG
Charlotte has versatility and multiple options offensively, with Big Al, Kemba, and Lance. Young players Noah Vonleh and Michel Kidd-Gilchrist have brought defensive toughness to their lineup as well, and the Hornets are just a solid, all-around team. Kemba or Jefferson need to step up as that go-to, superstar option if they will make a deep run, but Charlotte should still win their first round series against Detroit.

After dumping Josh Smith, the Pistons took off in a big way. Andre Drummond and Greg Monroe controlled the paint in Detroit, while offseason signings Wesley Matthews and Robin Lopez brought leadership and toughness from the Blazers. Detroit lacks a star scorer as much as Brandon Jennings might like to try to be, which might be their downfall in the series, but have plenty of good pieces going forward.

Oh, there it is. Good luck in the playoffs man

I don't see going too far in the Playoffs without Gay. Let's hope Cousins can out-play Dwight, but stopping Harden is a huge problem.