So far, the Sacramento Kings' preseason hasn't exactly instilled confidence in the fanbase. The Kings are sporting a record of zero and four, which will likely slip to five losses when they take on the Spurs. But in true Sacramento fashion, there were definitely some positives to feel good about.
The Kings' last loss was to the Blazers, a team that always seems to have their number. With Damian Lillard back in Portland and Ja Morant on the roster, that's not likely to get better. The final score was 110 to 98, which is significantly better than how things were looking at halftime.
Not surprisingly, it was Deni Avdija alongside Lillard and Morant who were lighting the Kings up. This trio combined for almost 50% of the Blazers' points. It was a solid preview of what the rest of the league can expect from Portland, assuming no one gets injured. Looking at you, Dame D.O.L.L.A.
While the Kings didn't pick up the win, it should be noted that at least two key players were out injured in addition to several not suiting up for no apparent reason. That includes the vast majority of the Kings projected starters. When you look at it from that point of view, Sacramento did pretty well.
Several players stepped up for the Kings
First and foremost, both Precious Achiuwa and Jonathan Mogbo were holding it down. They each collected double-doubles. Achiuwa had 12 points and 11 rebounds while Mogbo had 15 points and 10 rebounds. Additionally, they each had four assists, one steal, and one block.
Rookies Emanuel Sharp and Alex Karaban also had respectable games. Sharp finished with 12 points, three rebounds, three assists, and one steal. On the other hand, Karaban was closing in on a double-double of his own. He collected eight points, eight rebounds, three assists, one steal, and one block.
It's also worth taking a moment to shout out Tristan Newton, who is fighting for a spot on the Kings' roster. He tied with Mogbo for the highest Sacramento scorer of the game with 15 points to go with his two rebounds, three assists, one steal, and zero turnovers. The King could use his hustle.
All told, seven of the 11 Kings who played against the Blazers scored in double digits. They also took Portland down on the offensive glass, picking up 17 offensive rebounds compared to the Blazers' nine. Now, Sacramento just needs to do a better job of capitalizing on those opportunities.
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