Coming out of a tough 2024-2025 season, there were a lot of questions surrounding the Kings. From the coaching to the roster, everyone wants to know what the plan is for 2025-2026. Fans want better from the Kings this season, and want the Kings to expect better from themselves.
A big question mark surrounds Keegan Murray, who is going into his fourth season in the NBA as well as with the Kings. He has long shown a huge amount of promise, but has often struggled to find his rhythm on the team. That's not completely his fault.
The lack of stability in Sacramento makes it difficult to develop young talent, particularly during last season's mess. As such, there's a lot of weight on the young star's shoulders to be a difference maker this season. Fortunately, the head coach is keeping things simple.
Doug Christie has a clear vision for Keegan Murray
Going into his first full season as the Kings' head coach, Doug Christie was ready to answer questions at media day. Not surprisingly, his plans for Keegan Murray were a huge topic of conversation. And his answer was three simple words.
Coach Christie aims to keep it simple this season with Keegan Murray’s game: Smile, Defend, & Shoot pic.twitter.com/JAustCLlZ4
— Sactown Sports 1140 (@Sactown1140) September 30, 2025
Smile. Defend. Shoot. Those three words encapsulate Christie's vision for Murray, and it couldn't be more perfect. Defense will be Murray's focus, which is something the Kings desperately need. When he has an open shot, Christie expects Murray to take it.
As strange as this sounds, the key to all of this is the word smile. Christie wants Murray to take the game seriously but still have fun playing it. Maintaining his joy on the court will keep him engaged in the process and excited to be on the court for every game. That likely goes for the whole team.
Maybe there's some hope for the 2025-2026 after all.