Sacramento Kings: 2016 Holiday Season Wish List

Dec 21, 2016; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Sacramento Kings forward DeMarcus Cousins (15) draws a foul from Utah Jazz guard Raul Neto (25) in the fourth quarter at Vivint Smart Home Arena. The Sacramento Kings defeated the Utah Jazz 94-93. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 21, 2016; Salt Lake City, UT, USA; Sacramento Kings forward DeMarcus Cousins (15) draws a foul from Utah Jazz guard Raul Neto (25) in the fourth quarter at Vivint Smart Home Arena. The Sacramento Kings defeated the Utah Jazz 94-93. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports
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Dec 9, 2016; Sacramento, CA, USA; New York Knicks guard Brandon Jennings (3) drives past Sacramento Kings guard Darren Collison (7) during the first quarter at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 9, 2016; Sacramento, CA, USA; New York Knicks guard Brandon Jennings (3) drives past Sacramento Kings guard Darren Collison (7) during the first quarter at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports

WISH 1: Improved Defensive Play

The Kings consistently struggle on the defensive end of the floor.  If you look at defensive rating , they rank 23rd in the NBA by allowing 107.1 points per 100 possessions.

In particular, the guard and perimeter defensive have struggled mightily again this season.  The Kings allow 10.5 3-pointers made per game ranking 28th in the NBA.  They also allow opponents to connect on 36.5% of their 3-point attempts ranking 25th in the league.

Another area of struggle is fouling.  The Kings allow 25.5 free throw attempts per game which rate 26th in the NBA.  If you view personal fouls committed, Sacramento is 20th in the NBA.

The defense needs to pick up if they want to win games.  In particular, they need to improve their perimeter defense and defend without fouling.  I will be a happy camper if the Kings can improve in those key areas throughout the season.

Schedule