By Barbara Mason

The Sacramento Kings (6-20) played well enough through three quarters to beat the Minnesota Timberwolves (17-9) but gave it up in the fourth quarter losing 117-103. They were unable to close out the game despite a solid first half of basketball.

Dennis Schroeder had a nice return scoring 17 points off the bench as did Precious Achiuwa. Malik Monk had 16 points, the bench scoring 50 cumulative points and having a great game. The starters had a very disappointing night.

Game recap: The Kings got a strong start in the opening quarter of the the game leading after the first 12 minutes of play 27-20. The Timberwolves answered the strong King start outscoring them in the second quarter 31-25. Going into the locker room at the half it was anyone’s game with the Kings hanging onto a one-point lead 52-51.

The Timberwolves continued their rally finishing the third quarter strong outscoring the Kings 37-32 and continuing to lead 88-84 going into the fourth quarter. While Sacramento was in a great position to rally and win this game, they would have to tighten up their offense and finish strong as they did to end the first quarter.

It did not go Sacramento’s way as they continued to fall further and further behind in the fourth quarter. Seven fouls in the final quarter and 15 total turnovers cost the Kings dearly in this game. The Timberwolves outscored the Kings in the final quarter 29-19.

Both teams shot at 46% from the field and the Kings actually had more success from beyond the arc than Minnesota despite the loss. The letdown in the final quarter was as we have seen in the past, the determining factor. They were unable to close out this game. The Timberwolves running away with the game in the fourth quarter.

It was a slow night for the Sacramento starters although the Kings bench was outstanding. Both Achiuwa and Schroeder (on his return) scored 17 points. Monk finished with 16 points and the team scored a cumulative 50 points off a strong bench showing.

Three King starters had double figures with DeMar DeRozan the high with only 17 points. Zach LaVine and Keegan Murray finished with ten points apiece. Both Russell Westbrook and Maxime Raynaud each had 8 points. A letdown offensively was just one of the culprits that turned the tide in this game.

Game notes: Sunday evening the Kings took on the Timberwolves the day before the unofficial trade season kicks off. Teams that have players with existing contracts can be traded anytime with speculation beginning early, as in the case of the Kings, with lots of talk regarding re-building and moving most of the starting lineup.

Next week may reveal some major changes within the team. For now, the Kings will be looking to knock off another elite team for the second time this season. In overtime back on November 24 the Kings beat Minnesota 117-112 in a thriller at Golden 1 Center.

Good news for the Kings is the re-evaluation of Domantas Sabonis may be any day now and he is likely nearing a return to the team. His return may be as soon as the next couple weeks. While trade rumors continue to swirl, Sabonis has indicated that he is prepared to stay with the Kings. He is on contract through 2028 and he has significant salary which will limit trade prospects. Dennis Schroeder will be back on the court more good news for the Sacramento bench.

Sacramento will not take the court again until later this week taking on the Portland Trail Blazers Thursday night giving the team a breather to re-group. Tipoff for this game is scheduled for 7:00 PM at Moda Center.

Whether you’re pre-gaming with the Kings or celebrating an A’s win, Cyprus Grille at the Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown – Arena is your downtown go-to.

⚡Craft cocktails? Check.
🔥Game-day bites? Oh yeah.
🏟️Steps from Golden 1 Center? You bet.

Open daily, Cyprus Grille is serving up local flavor with a front-row seat to the action. Stop by before or after the game—or make it your new downtown hangout.

Cyprus Grille—where fans fuel up.

📍Located inside the Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown – Arena @ 300 J Street

Happy Hour – 4pm-6pm

Show your ticket for additional discounts when dining in.