T-Rob Attacks The Rim In Loss To Raptors

The Sacramento Kings took another L on Wednesday, falling to the Toronto Raptors, 96-89. The Raptors, featuring Ed Davis down low and rookie Terrence Ross on the perimeter, presented a solid challenge for the Kings young participants.

THOMAS ROBINSON

For the first 20 minutes, you may have thought the Kings drafted an oversized small forward. Sacramento shouldn’t limit Robinson to specific spots on the court because his versatility is an asset. But you can’t tell me you want Robinson consistently receiving the ball at the three-point line, taking two bounces and firing a jumper off the dribble. And that was his primary move through the first half. But something clicked in the second half. Robinson decided he could be much more effective if he attacked the basket, and Kings fans got to see some of his skills around the paint. T-Rob had some pretty spin moves, took advantage of smaller defenders and flashed some great touch around the rim. It’s what you want to see out of your power forward of the future. Also on display were Robinson’s passing skills, which are clearly better than advertised. He is making some very careless plays when trying to force passes, but the basis is there for a very steady passer.

30 MIN, 7 PTS (3-13 FG, 1-3 FT), 8 REB, 5 AST, 3 TO

JIMMER FREDETTE

The shots stopped falling, which was disappointing, but Jimmer did a better job against Toronto of penetrating. On two occasions, he was able to beat his defender, draw and dish — and this is the play of a point guard. Evaluating his point guard play, he also did a solid job of protecting the ball, rarely forcing passes or giving it away. With his shot off, Jimmer did a good job of creating contact in the lane and getting to the line, which will be essential for him as he is not stronger or faster than many of the players he will be matched up with. Defensively, Fredette will never be a standout, but against the Raptors he picked up a couple deflections in the passing lanes, one leading to a steal. You expect Jimmer to hit his open jumpers, so when he misses makeable shots, it’s a letdown. But there were some positives to take away.

34 MIN, 19 PTS (5-17 FG, 2-9 3FG, 7-10 FT), 4 REB, 3 AST, 1 STL, 2 TO

THE OTHERS

I like Josh Akognon, if for no other reason than he clearly recognizes the opportunity at hand. He’s out there to impress and the point guard has some nice skills shooting the basketball … Michael Lee stood out again as a versatile player with solid skills on both ends. He has no amazing traits, but he won’t hurt you and does several things well (defense and shooting among them) … Tony Mitchell has some ups. He’s shooting the ball well and making a solid bid to earn an invite to training camp.