Game 21 Notes: Sacramento Kings Lose Close One To Houston Rockets
The Sacramento Kings fell to 7-14 on the season after losing to the Houston Rockets last night 120-113.
Below are noteworthy statistics gathered from the Sacramento Kings community:
- Houston has now won seven in a row against the Kings.
- The Kings scored 20 more points in the paint to go along with 11 more fast break points. In addition, they added a season high 35 assists as a team.
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- The Kings shot 30 less free throw attempts than the Rockets.
- NBA official Lauren Holtkamp was one of the crew members working the game last night. Sacramento is now 0-9 with Holtkamp officiating.
- Houston shot 43 free throw attempts compared to just 13 for the Kings.
Dec 5, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Rajon Rondo (9) splits the Houston Rockets defense for a layup in the second half at Toyota Center. Rockets won 120-111. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports
The Kings struggles on defense continued last night particularly guarding the three ball. The Rockets shot 16/34 from deep, and it really was a key in the game by never allowing the Kings to build a lead.
The Rockets shot 46.2% overall from the field, but shot above 50% in the second half including 36 fourth quarter points.
The Kings got back into the game in the third quarter by shooting 14/20 from the field. However, the Rockets were able to keep it close by converting on 10/17.
There were 19 lead changes in this game but the Kings could never string together a run to break the game open. Getting to the line as often as the Rockets did prevented any big runs by the Kings.
DeMarcus Cousins really struggled in this game. After fouling out, Boogie finished with just 14 points on 4/16 shooting, 9 rebounds, and 3 assists.
Rajon Rondo also recorded his ninth double-double of the season (13 points and 19 assists). This is the 11th time this season he has had 10+ assists in a game.
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Rondo has now recorded six games with 15 assists or more. The rest of the NBA has only four games.
Another bright spot in this game was Ben McLemore who finished with 19 points on 8/14 shooting, 9 rebounds, and only 1 turnover. He was extremely active and lead the Kings in minutes played (42 minutes). This game will hopefully allow McLemore to gain some confidence on the offensive side of the ball going forward.
The Kings had plenty of chances to win this game but their inability to defend the three ball and Houston’s ability to get to the free throw proved to be the difference.
Next: Battle Of The Stars: Kings at Thunder
The Sacramento Kings will take on a tough Oklahoma City Thunder team today at 4:00. The Kings are going to have to put together a complete game in order to steal a win on the road.