Kings Break Into Top 10 of NBA Power Rankings Despite Hornets Loss
The Sacramento Kings are 19-13 after their first game in the New Year, and despite a bad loss to the Charlotte Hornets last night, they have managed to jump back into to top 10 of ESPN's latest NBA Power Rankings after being knocked do to 11th last week.
The Kings have found placement at eight this week, and while they might have some consistency issues, fantastic recent performances from All-Star Duo G De'Aaron Fox and C Domantas Sabonis have helped the team shine. On top of the duo, fantastic performances from Sixth Man of the Year candidate G Malik Monk have helped propel the Kings forward as they are on pace to match their 48-win total from last season.
Kendra Andrews had the following to say about the Kings this week:
Despite a bad loss to the Blazers last week, the Kings are rounding into form, and Malik Monk has been a huge reason, averaging 14 points and 6.4 assists off the bench over a stretch in which Sacramento has won eight of 12. The Kings haven't taken the leap many expected after last season's surge, but they are being patient with their young group. That said, the trade deadline is just weeks away.
Andrews brings up an important point - the trade deadline is just weeks away, and the Kings need to make a move if they are going to contend for a title this year. G Kevin Huerter has fallen out of the rotation and lost his starting spot to G Chris Duarte and likely would be a part of a trade package with potentially F Harrison Barnes and G Davion Mitchell. Malik Monk is putting up performances and is worthy of being a starter, but that would severely weaken the bench rotation.
While the Kings are linked to Toronto Raptors F Pascal Siakam and Washington Wizards F Kyle Kuzma, it is unclear who GM Monte McNair is eyeing as we approach the February 8 trade deadline.
The Kings will look to rebound from the loss to Charlotte against the Orlando Magic on January 3 at 7 p.m. PT/10 p.m. ET.
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