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Sacramento Kings vs. Phoenix Suns: Keys to the Game

By Sanjesh Singh

LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 12: Head coach David Joerger of the Sacramento Kings reacts during the first half against the LA Clippers at Staples Center on April 12, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA - APRIL 12: Head coach David Joerger of the Sacramento Kings reacts during the first half against the LA Clippers at Staples Center on April 12, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /
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The first Sacramento Kings’ summer league game is merely upon us and to ensure a victory, a plan must be set. Here are my keys to the game!

There is a plethora of hype surrounding the Kings’ first summer ;eague game. We fans know to look forward to our own star youngsters, but the Suns have some of their own. Marquese Chriss came along as an explosive player who averaged 9.2 points and 4.2 rebounds last season. Numerous eyes will be on the recent 4th overall draft pick, Josh Jackson. The 6’8″ small forward averaged 16 points and 7 rebounds per game last season at Kansas. Other notable Suns include Dragan Bender, David Stockton, and Tyler Ulis. It will not be easy but here are some keys to the game!

Fast Start

If the Kings want to win this game, they must not fall behind early. It will not bode well for the Kings if they have to fight their way back into their first game. Players like Fox and Mason in the backcourt will be responsible for using their intellects to ensure a solid, steady offense. A fast start will only increase the confidence in these young players and if a fast start does occur, I don’t see the Kings looking back.

This leads me to my next key:

Hot Shooting

The Kings come into the Summer League with some well-known shooters. Players like Buddy Hield, Malachi Richardson, Frank Mason, and Justin Jackson are the most popular shooters on our team but there are other players to look out for. Skal Labissiere made Grant Napier crazy when he hit a three against the Suns this past season en route to a career-high 32 points. Guards Dominique Hawkins and Naz Long along with forward Scootie Randall have three-point percentages all in the 30s. I wouldn’t be surprised to see some hot shooting so look out for that!

Slow Down Josh Jackson

The Suns hottest prospect Josh Jackson will have all eyes on him and it will be extremely crucial to slow him down. I expect Jackson to have his fair share of points, but if the Kings can minimize his production, it will be easier to stop the rest of the Suns’ offense.

Next: Sacramento Kings projected 2017-2018 depth chart

It is only a few hours away before tip-off fans! Hopefully, the Kings come out with an impressive victory and give us something to cheer about!

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