By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
On the opposite side of the New York Knicks, and Isaiah Hartenstein, brought a physical affair in Golden 1 Center for Domantas Sabonis. The Lithuanian star posted his 49th consecutive double-double but the Sacramento Kings suffered a home loss on NBA Saturdays.
“I just wish we won the game. They kind of punched us in the mouth in the third quarter,” confessed Sabonis after tallying 21 points, 14 rebounds, two assists, and one steal. From a strong start and 13 points in the first quarter to being limited to three points after the break.
“We fought back. It is something that I am happy for my team doing. Being physical,” he replied to a question about how a physical approach from the opponents in the Regular Season can benefit the Kings heading into the Playoffs.
“As best as we could, we tried to get out and run to negate that physicality, but we played right into their hands,” added De’ Aaron Fox.
“I think it is great we get this kind of matchup before the Playoffs,” Sabonis referred to a rematch in Madison Square Garden on April 4.
Besides effective defense, especially in containing Sabonis, Jalen Brunson’s 42 points lifted the visitors to a win in the capital of California.
The team coached by Mike Brown was forced down to 38-28 and half a game outside the Play-In zone of the Western Conference. Wrapping up a six-game homestand, the Kings entertain the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday.