While the Sacramento Kings have a multitude of issues to sort out, the most important might be defense. In recent games, that seems to be taking a turn as Sacramento's grit and grind defense is locking things down, starting with the gameplay of Precious Achiuwa and Dylan Cardwell.
Sacramento being abyssmal on defense is nothing new. The issues have been there for years, though they were briefly offset by a strong offensive presence during the short but sweet Beam Team Era. The former front office was focused on offense over defense, putting the Kings in this rough spot.
Slowly, times seem to be changing. Head coach Doug Christie has made it clear that defense is the priority, which general manager Scott Perry seems to firmly support. Regardless, the Kings are loaded with shooters who aren't really known for their defense, making the transition difficult.
Through the last few weeks, there have been signs of growth. The Kings' roster has been putting in a stronger, albeit inconsistent, defensive effort. It's gritty and barebones, but it's there. After a three-game win streak at home, it looks like the defense is starting to coalesce thanks to two players.
Precious Achiuwa and Dylan Cardwell lock it down for the Kings
To be blunt, the Kings' biggest problem on defense has long been starting center Domantas Sabonis. He can be an impressive offensive and rebounding threat when used right, but his defensive prowess leaves a lot to be desired. But he has been injure since mid November and has yet to return.
This has given other bigs like Maxime Raynaud, Dyland Cardwell, and Precious Achiuwa more minutes on the court. The recent injury to Keegan Murray has also impacted that, resulting in Achiuwa taking on a starting position alongside Raynaud. These moves have definitely improved the Kings' defense.
Achiuwa finished the game against the Knicks with 20 points, 14 rebounds, two assists, two steals, and two blocks. Cardwell clocked out with two points, six rebounds, one assist, one steal, and three blocks. These performances are the anchors the Kings' defence is being built around.
More than the stats, these two along with Raynaud were absolute menaces in the paint, finally providing the Kings with that big defensive presence they have needed for so long. And the result was a huge win over one of the best teams in the league and a legit championship contender.