The biggest weakness in the Sacramento Kings' game has been its defense. But in a huge win over the Dallas Mavericks, the Kings were all-in on defense. While this progress has been impressive, the potential return of a pair of injured players could derail all this hard work.
On paper, the Kings actually have a solid team. Yes, it's wildly imbalanced in a number of ways and lacks a defensive identity of any kind. At the same time, the roster is still loaded with legendary veterans who can score and generate high-octane offense for a full 48.
The problem is that it's on paper. In reality, it's a group that doesn't quite fit together, as evidenced by their eight and 23 start to the season. Since Zach LaVine and Domantas Sabonis were benched due to injuries, things seem to be trending upwards for the Kings, though.
Two injured veterans really opened things up for Sacramento
Domantas Sabonis and Zach LaVine are both impressive offensive weapons who are also borderline non-factors on defense. It's great that they score so much, but victories are built on the solid foundation of strong defense. That's just how the game is played.
Both Sabonis and LaVine are now out injured, along with Keegan Murray, Devin Carter, and Drew Eubanks. This opened a variety of opportunities for different players to take center stage, and that has paid off. Since Sabonis and LaVine have been out, the Kings' defensive identity has changed.
To be more specific, they have one. A lot of this is coming from players like Keon Ellis, Precious Achiuwa, and the Kings' rookie trio getting increased minutes as well as gelling together nicely. The Kings without Sabonis and LaVine are actually better than the Kings with them.
The future of the Kings is now
For the past few games, the Kings have been playing defense with a level of intensity, tenacity, and consistency that has been eluding them for a while. The fact that neither Sabonis nor LaVine is on the court while this change is happening is simply not a coincidence.
No disrespect meant to either player, but it's becoming increasingly apparent that they don't fit the current Kings' era. It's not because they're veterans, either. Both Russell Westbrook and DeMar DeRozan have been in the league longer, yet have fit into this new version of the Kings nicely.
Seeing the Kings play real defense is great, and a huge step forward for the team. But there may come a point when both Sabonis and LaVine return to the lineup because they haven't been traded yet. That means figuring out a way to use them without sacrificing Sacramento's defensive progress.