The Sacramento Kings are wrapping up a challenging season, but they're still making headlines by setting some franchise records, albeit not the kind they'd hoped for.
In a 139-118 defeat against the Philadelphia 76ers at Golden 1 Center, the Kings suffered their second consecutive loss by 20 or more points. This marked their 18th such loss this season, surpassing the previous record set by the 2008-09 squad.
While this isn't the kind of history any team wants to make, there's a silver lining. The Kings are in prime position for a high lottery pick in the upcoming NBA Draft, sharing the third-worst record in the league with Brooklyn, which gives them a 14% chance at the top pick and a 52.1% shot at landing in the top four.
Sacramento Kings vs. Philadelphia 76ers: Key Takeaways
Despite missing key players like Tyrese Maxey, Joel Embiid, and Paul George, the 76ers came out firing, putting up 45 points in the first quarter and shooting 58% from three-point range. The Kings found themselves in a deep hole early on.
Maxime Raynaud, fresh off a career-high 32-point game, led the Kings with 16 points in the first half. Despite their own 56% shooting from beyond the arc, the Kings couldn't keep up with Philadelphia's pace, trailing by nine at halftime.
DeMar DeRozan came alive in the third quarter with 13 points, but Philadelphia's rookie guard VJ Edgecombe matched that with his own 13-point performance, helping the 76ers extend their lead to 18 points heading into the final quarter.
Maxime Raynaud Shines Again
Rookie center Maxime Raynaud continued to impress, scoring 30 points on 11-of-17 shooting, including three-of-four from deep. This makes him the first Kings rookie to score 30-plus points in consecutive games since Walt Williams in 1993. Raynaud's rise is a bright spot in an otherwise tough season, as he moves up the NBA's Rookie Ladder and eyes a spot on the All-Rookie Team.
Additional Highlights
Two-way guard Daeqwon Plowden also had a career night, scoring 20 points and hitting four of eight from three-point range. He's been consistent, hitting double figures in seven straight games.
Injury Updates
The Kings are dealing with a slew of injuries. Malik Monk left the game with a shoulder issue, and updates are pending.
Nique Clifford is day-to-day with a hamstring strain, while Devin Carter is also day-to-day with calf soreness. Keegan Murray will be re-evaluated in two weeks for an ankle sprain.
Zach LaVine, De’Andre Hunter, Domantas Sabonis, and Drew Eubanks are all out for the season with various injuries.
Upcoming Games
The Kings will look to end their homestand on a high note against the Brooklyn Nets, a game with significant draft lottery implications. Tune in to Sactown Sports 1140 AM for all the action, with pregame coverage starting at 1:30 PM PT.
Mark your calendars for the Kings' upcoming games:
- Sunday, March 22nd vs. Brooklyn Nets - 3:00 PM PT
- Tuesday, March 24th @ Charlotte Hornets - 4:00 PM PT
- Thursday, March 26th @ Orlando Magic - 4:00 PM PT
- Saturday, March 28th @ Brooklyn Nets - 4:00 PM PT
- Sunday, March 29th @ Brooklyn Nets - 3:00 PM PT
Stay tuned for more updates and insights on the Kings as they navigate the final stretch of the season.