After yet another second-half collapse, the Sacramento Kings lost one more winnable game, this time to the Raptors. That being said, it's hard not to be enthralled by rookie Dylan Cardwell, even in a loss. More than his game and his energy, his humbleness and gratitude are impressive.
Once again, the Kings snatched a loss from the jaws of victory by confidently winning the first half, only to get utterly destroyed in the second. This was the final game of Sacramento's home stand before heading out on a long road trip that's going to be tough. A win would have been nice.
A major highlight of last night's game, as well as the last few weeks, was rookie Dylan Cardwell. He was on a roll, as usual, picking up two points, 13 rebounds, three assists, one steal, and four blocks. It was another career night for him as it was the most rebounds he's collected so far in one NBA game.
In the last three games, Cardwell has collected 35 rebounds, which is huge. On top of that, he's got seven blocks, which is more than any other member of the team. He's the closest player the Kings have to an elite rim protector. But what Cardwell brings to the table is far more than that.
Dylan Cardwell is the foundation of the new Kings
When Cardwell is on the court, everyone watching can expect him to be hyped. Whether he throws down a dominant alley oop dunk or blocks an incredible shot, he follows it up with a massive celebration that fires up both his team and the crowd. He loves what he does.
"No one thought I was an NBA player. I'm not supposed to be here, but God...We may not be having a great season, but this is the best locker room I've really been a part of, outside of my last year at Auburn."
— Kevin John (@heykevinjohn) January 22, 2026
-Kings rookie Dylan Cardwell shares his gratitude@AuburnMBB |… pic.twitter.com/o6i8wnXmi1
In his post-game interview, Dylan expressed his gratitude for even being able to play in the NBA. He acknowledged that his college career was good, but no one expected him to make it into the league. Every game he plays, he's defying expectations and proving that betting on himself was right.
This is one of the most grounded and grateful players in the league. Fans get so used to guys like Ja Morant, who are so caught up in their own hype that they don't even seem to care about the game anymore. Cardwell is the breath of fresh air that the NBA needs.
It seems impossible to believe that Dylan Cardwell was undrafted, given what Sactown fans have seen from him. Hopefully, the coaching staff and the front office see the potential, as well, and keep him around. Both the Kings and the league in general need more players like him.