Recap: Sacramento Kings Fall To LeBron/Cavs In Crunch Time
By Rafe Wong
The Sacramento Kings and Cleveland Cavaliers played a thrilling game tonight. But LeBron James and the Cavs were able to claim victory in the final minutes.
Game Summary
Even with no Willie Cauley-Stein and Skal Labissiere, the Sacramento Kings were unfazed to start the game. Both teams were sluggish to start the contest on offense, but the Kings did just enough to end the first leading 22-19.
The second quarter was when the scoring started to spark. Zach Randolph and Buddy Hield were the anchors for the Kings on offense and the team collectively continued to play gritty defense. As a result, Sacramento led 57-48 going into halftime.
Cleveland fought their way back in the third behind LeBron James’ 13 points in the quarter. But Sacramento survived the rally due to the play of Randolph and JaKarr Sampson which helped the Kings maintain the lead at 78-73 going into the fourth.
The match remained close throughout the final period. The Cavaliers rallied to gain the lead but the Kings fought back. In the final minutes of the game, the score was tied at 95, but in the end, LeBron is “The King” for a reason as he made two crucial baskets to seal the 101-95 win for Cleveland.
Performers of the Game
Top performers for the Cavs tonight were Kyle Korver who scored 15 points including four three-pointers, Kevin Love who recorded 18 points and 13 rebounds, and LeBron James who recorded 32 points, 11 rebounds, and nine assists.
Players who stood out for the Kings were Zach Randolph who recorded 18 points and 10 rebounds, Buddy Hield who scored 17 points, and JaKarr Sampson who scored six points and notched 16 rebounds.
Final Thoughts
This game will go down as a loss for Sacramento, but they showed tonight they have the potential to be competitive against any opponent even while being shorthanded.
If Sacramento displays more performances like tonight, it will be another growing step forward in their rebuilding process.
Keep playing physical basketball and show immense effort on both ends of the court, Kings. Fans will greatly appreciate that.
Next time the Kings take the hardwood will be against the New Orleans Pelicans Friday night.