The Sacramento Kings got a 109-101 over the Boston Celtics, notching George Karl his first victory. Despite a slow start, including being down 18-4 in the first quarter, the Sacramento Kings found their poise and rebounded. The Kings won all four quarters leading to this victory. The consistent effort was a welcomed sight.
The effort from the bench was pivotal to getting tonight’s win. Omri Casspi, Jason Thompson, Derrick Williams and Andre Miller brought effort all night and were key to the second unit. Casspi provided 7 points, 12 rebounds, and 6 assists and Williams chipped in 11 points and 5 rebounds. Check out the box score for all the numbers from tonight’s game.
Feb 20, 2015; Sacramento, CA, USA; Sacramento Kings forward Derrick Williams (13) goes up for a shot against the Boston Celtics during the first quarter at Sleep Train Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports
That said, the game ended up being closer than it should have been due to turnovers. The Kings will have to hold on to the ball more. They had 24 turnovers that the Celtics turned into 38 points. Going forward avoiding these turnovers are important to winning consistently.
The fact that the Kings were able to win going away despite the turnovers was nice to see.
DeMarcus Cousins, Rudy Gay, and the newly acquired Miller were tonight’s three stars of the game.
One King – DeMarcus Cousins
Cousins had an impressive effort in his first game back from the All Star break. He continued the excellent play he showed over the first half. He finished with 31 points, 15 rebounds and 3 assists, and tonight marked the 30th time Cousins surpassed the 20 point/10 rebound roadmark. His effort on both ends was incredible. He was able to block shots and change shots. He also provided a coast to coast play that ended with Jae Crowder ending up on a poster:
Two Kings – Rudy Gay
Gay had another strong performance against the Boston Celtics. He contributed 28 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists, and made key defensive plays, especially in the final minutes as the Celtics tried to make it close.
Feb 20, 2015; Sacramento, CA, USA; Boston Celtics guard Avery Bradley (0) takes a shot over Sacramento Kings guard Andre Miller (22) during the fourth quarter at Sleep Train Arena. The Sacramento Kings defeated the Boston Celtics 109-101. Mandatory Credit: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports
Three Kings – Andre Miller
One day after being traded to the Sacramento Kings, Miller was on the floor and productive for the Kings. Having previous experience in Karl’s system was key to his ability to step right in and perform. He had eight points, four rebound and four assists in 23 minutes. More importantly he provided veteran poise and stability in the final minutes that were key to closing this game out. Gay added a nice little poke to his new teammate after the game.
Rudy Gay on if having Andre Miller is like having another coach on the floor: "I think they're the same age so yeah."
— TKHBlake (@TKHblake) February 21, 2015
It seems like Miller will fit in just fine in his new home.
The Kings are right back at it tomorrow in Los Angeles against the Clippers. Tip off is scheduled for 7pm.