Category: NBA

Kings’ Shooting Woes Continue in 98-93 Loss to Trail Blazers

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Maxime Raynaud #42 of the Sacramento Kings drives to the basket during the game against the Portland Trail Blazers on December 20, 2025 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. (Mandatory Photo Credit: Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)

By Jeremiah Salmonson

DOWNTOWN SACRAMENTO — Coming off a rough few weeks in the month of December, the Kings were back in action on Saturday night against the Portland Trail Blazers in Sacramento at Golden 1 Center. The Kings fell to the Blazers 98-93 on Saturday night.

In the first quarter, the Kings got down 15-2 early as the starters couldn’t get much going. However, the bench came in and got the Kings back into the game to finish the quarter with the Blazers outscoring the Kings 28-26. The Kings went on a 24-13 run to finish the quarter after the starters came out and kept the game from getting out of hand, as Keegan Murray led the Kings with eight first-quarter points.

In the second quarter, neither team made a move to take over the game as they both traded baskets for the most part. The Blazers outscored the Kings 19-18 in the second to take a 47-44 lead into halftime at Golden 1 Center. The Kings’ offense really struggled in the first half as they shot 27% from deep and 46% overall in the half. Keegan Murray and Dennis Schröder led the Kings with 10 points each in first-half scoring for the Kings.

In the third quarter, the Trail Blazers went on a run early in the quarter to take a 12-point lead over the Kings. However, as the quarter came to a close, the Kings were able to battle and get the score back to where it started coming out of halftime. The Kings and Blazers each scored 25 points in the third to go into the fourth with the Kings trailing 72-69. Keegan Murray and Dennis Schröder continued to lead the Kings with 15 and 16 points, respectively, through three quarters.

In the fourth quarter, it was the same story as the Kings hung around but weren’t able to get any momentum to take over the game. The Blazers outscored the Kings 26-24 in the final quarter of the game to defeat the Kings 98-93 in regulation. The Kings struggled all game to score from three-point land as they finished the game shooting an abysmal 19% from deep. Overall, the Kings shot 38% from the field and 67% from the line in what can be described as a bad shooting night. Dennis Schröder led the Kings in scoring with 21 points in the game as Deni Avdija led all scorers with 24 points.

After the game, Doug Christie was happy with the effort the Kings showed. However, they need to become more consistent on both ends of the floor to see the results in the end of games.

Up Next: The Kings stay home to take on the Houston Rockets on Sunday night at 7 p.m. PST at Golden 1 Center.

Warriors Snap 3 Game Losing Streak on a 14-Point comeback Win against the Suns, 119-116.

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) scores a three-pointer against the Phoenix Suns in the fourth quarter during an NBA game at Chase Center in San Francisco, Saturday, Dec. 20, 2025. The Warriors won 119-116. (Photo Credits to Santiago Mejia/ S.F. Chronicle)

By Michael Villanueva

SAN FRANCISCO – The Golden State Warriors began their Saturday evening game at 5:30 p.m. inside Chase Center against the Phoenix Suns (15-12), who started the night and stayed seventh in the Western Conference. The game marked Golden State’s Native American Heritage Night, as the Warriors fought and ultimately ended a three-game losing streak with a 119-116 win over the Suns. It was the teams’ third meeting this season, with Phoenix defeating Golden State 99-98 in Arizona on December 18, matching the season series at 1-1.

Golden State came into the game averaging 113.8 points per game, while Phoenix allowed 113.9 points per game defensively. The Warriors also finished 3-2 against division opponents. Head coach Steve Kerr started Jimmy Butler III, Draymond Green, Quinten Post, Moses Moody, and Stephen Curry, who averaged 28.8 points and four rebounds per game this season.

Despite Butler’s strong first-quarter performance of 10 points, the Warriors fell behind early on. Brandin Podziemski scored eight points, but Golden State struggled defensively, trailing 44-32 at the end of the first quarter. The Warriors committed five turnovers and shot 13-of-23 (56.5%) from the field, while Phoenix capitalized on Devin Booker and Dillon Brooks’ hot shooting, scoring 11 and 12 points, respectively.

Golden State’s night took a turn in the second quarter when Draymond Green was ejecteded for two quick technical fouls. Green finished with four points, three rebounds, and an assist. The Warriors responded by increasing their depth in the rotation and intensifying their play. Will Richard, a rookie, had an immediate impact by hitting a perfect 3-of-3 from the field and 2-of-2 from three, totaling eight points and three rebounds.

The Warriors dominated the glass, outrebounding Phoenix 24-15 in the first half, but the Suns kept the lead with smart offense, hitting 26-of-47 (55.3%) and 7-of-17 (41.2%) from three. De’Anthony Melton made two of three free throws after getting fouled on a three-point try in the final seconds of the half, and Richard added a fast putback to close the gap on Melton’s last attempt. Phoenix led 67-64 at halftime.

Golden State began the third quarter with renewed energy. Jimmy Butler scored seven straight points, bringing his total to 17 before the halfway mark of the quarter, as the Warriors staged a comeback. Phoenix committed four early fouls, which allowed Golden State to find its attacking rhythm. The Warriors seized their first lead since the opening minutes when Gary Payton II hit a three-pointer, making it 79-76.

From there, the Warriors gained control thanks to their defensive energy and timely shooting. Richard continued to impress, hitting two major three-pointers that excited the Chase Center crowd. Phoenix struggled at the free-throw line during the quarter, going 16-of-20 after being flawless earlier. Butler and Richard had each scored more than 20 points by the end of the third quarter, and Golden State led 93-87 heading into the fourth.

The Warriors played smart basketball in the fourth quarter, focusing on spacing, ball movement, and tough defense. Stephen Curry’s leadership was noticed as he handled traffic offensively, hustled in transition defense, and kept the team focused. Golden State extended its lead to 11 points, 103-92, with seven minutes left.

Phoenix made one more effort behind Booker, who scored three consecutive baskets, including a three-point play, to cut the advantage to 109-105 with less than two minutes remaining. Curry responded with a deep 30-foot three-pointer, but the Suns continued to reply. Jimmy Butler made a three-point play to put the Warriors up 115-110, but Booker responded with another three-point play to make it 115-113.

Collin Gillespie missed a three-pointer that would have given the Suns the lead. Curry was fouled on the next possession and missed his last free throw attempt, but Gillespie next hit a tough three to get Phoenix within one point, 117-116, with nine seconds left. Golden State performed well under pressure, with Curry finishing with a reverse layup to increase the lead to three. Phoenix failed to take a shot on its final possession.

The Warriors rallied from 14 points down to win 119-116, stopping a three-game losing streak. Curry led Golden State with 28 points, going 9-for-19 from the field and 4-for-11 from beyond the arc, while also scoring a double-double with 10 rebounds.

Richard added 20 points and five rebounds, while the Warriors’ bench scored 52 points. Golden State improved to 14-15, eighth in the Western Conference, after going 4-6 in its previous ten games. The victory also gave the Warriors a 2-1 lead in the season series with the Suns. The Golden State Warriors ( 14-15) are scheduled to defend their home against the Orlando Magic at Chase Center on Monday, December 22, at 7 p.m.

Sacramento Kings podcast Tony Harvey: Sabonis to be out for another month

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Nov 11, 2025; Sacramento, California, USA; Sacramento Kings center Domantas Sabonis (11) reacts after a play during the second quarter against the Denver Nuggets at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images | Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images

Sacramento Kings podcast Tony Harvey:

#1 Tony, did the injury that Domantas Sabonis have make him someone who was tradble. Also Sabonis will be out another month with a left injury to his left knee.

#2 Sabonis has been out since Nov 16th due to a meniscus tear on his left knee. Sabonis will be looked at again by the Kings medical staff in four to five weeks.

#3 The Kings have been trying as hard as they may to get in the win column and are close to last in the Western Conference standings at 6-21.

#4 Sabonis is averaging 17.2 points and 12.3 rebounds per game in 11 games which he did before getting the injury. Sabonis preivous to this season had led the NBA in rebounding the last three years.

#5 The Kings returned back from a long four game road trip they will host the Portland Trail Blazers Saturday night at Golden One Center how do you see this game playing out?

Join Tony for the Kings podcasts Saturdays at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

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. 

Kings Lose To Trail Blazers In A Wild Overtime 134-133

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Sacramento Kings center Maxime Raynaud (42) questions a foul call against him in the second half against the Portland Trail Blazers Thu Dec 18, 2025 in Portland (AP News photo)

By Barbara Mason

The Sacramento Kings (6-21) lost to the Portland Trail Blazers (11-16) in overtime 134-133 forging a late fourth quarter rally to force the overtime They had trailed by as much as 18 points before making an amazing run.

DeMar DeRozan finished the game with 33 points and it appeared he had hit the winning shot but a foul sent Portland to the line with 1.5 seconds left on the clock. The Trail Blazers Deni Avdija hit both free throws winning the game for Portland by a single point.

Game recap: The first quarter was a high scoring opening 12 minutes with the Kings leading 40-36. As it turned out Dennis Schroeder was able to play off the bench in this game. The Trail Blazers came back strong in the second quarter outscoring Sacramento 27-20 taking a 63-60 lead into the locker room at the half. The Kings were very much in this game going into the third quarter.

A wild third quarter got underway with the two teams trading the lead throughout. With under four minutes left in the quarter the Kings had a slim 77-76 lead. Maxime Raynaud had the high score in the game so far for Sacramento with under three minutes left in the third.

The Kings had four starters in double figures and the Trail Blazers Shaedon Sharpe with 22 points was doing a lot of the heavy lifting for Portland as well as Deni Avdija. Going into the fourth quarter, this game could not have been any closer with Sacramento continuing to hold onto a one-point lead 83-82.

Not being able to close out games in the fourth quarter has been problematic for the Kings this season. Sacramento had yet another chance to try and close out this game for the win.

The Trail Blazers took back the lead early in the fourth quarter 89-85 and the race was on. With 8:36 left on the clock the Kings were already showing signs of shutting down as Portland continued to extend their lead 91-85.

At 5:16 the Trail Blazers had their largest lead of the game 107-89. With under four minutes left in the game it was all downhill for the Kings via fouls and turnovers and it began to look like another meltdown was in the works. Sacramento began to pick away at the Trail Blazers lead and with 8 seconds left on the clock DeMar DeRozan hit a three to tie up the game 115-115 and this contest went into overtime.

The Kings struggled to start the overtime giving up a 122-117 lead to Portland. Sacramento fought hard throughout the extra minutes coming as close as three-points 129-126 with a minute left on the clock.

With 4.4 seconds left in the overtime it was again DeRozan giving the Kings a one-point lead 133-132. When a win seemed imminent Russell Westbrook fouled Deni Avdija. Avdija made both free throws and that was the game with the Trail Blazers winning a wild one 134-133 handing the Kings a heart-breaking loss.

Sacramento fought hard in this game especially in overtime. They came so very close losing by a single point. DeRozan had the team high with 33 points and Maxime Raynaud had a double double finishing with 29 points and 11 rebounds. Westbrook turned in 20 points and Keegan Murray had 17 points.

Portland’s Avdija had the game high with 35 points hitting the two free throws at the end that won the game for the Trail Blazers.

Game notes: The Kings have struggled all season and the last thing, they need as they go into another road game this one against the Trail Blazers, with more injuries. The Kings continue without their big man Domantas Sabonis who will be re-evaluated any day now after suffering a partially torn meniscus.

It appears he is close to returning to the court. Along with Sabonis, Zach LaVine is also down with a left ankle sprain that may keep him out for at least a week. It gets worse for Sacramento with Dennis Schroeder questionable with a right ankle sprain.

With all of this upheaval Malik Monk, Nique Cliffored and Keon Ellis played larger roles in this game. As far as the starting lineup for the Kings used Maxime Raynaud who continues to battle in his new role. Drew Eubanks was ruled out with a thumb injury.

With this plethora of injuries the Sacramento bench played a huge role and the starting line up along with Raynaud, DeRozan, Murray, Westbrook and Precious Achiuwa taking the court. The Kings came into this game after losing to the Timberwolves Sunday 117-103 while the Trail Blazers beat the Golden State Warriors 136-131 on Sunday.

The two teams will meet for a second time in as many days this time at the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento on Saturday December 20th with tipoff scheduled for 7:00 PM .

Sacramento Kings podcast Jeremiah Salmonson: Kings look to end 3 game skid against Portland tonight

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Minnesota Timberwolves guard Rod Dillingham (4) goes airborne attempting to drive to the basket against the Sacramento Kings center Maxime Raynaud (left) and center Malik Monk (0) at the Target Center in Minneapolis Thu Dec 18, 2025 (AP News photo)

Sacramento Kings podcast Jeremiah Salmonson:

#1 With Domantas Sabonis and Zach LaVine both out of the lineup, how will the Kings adjust their game plan — and which role will DeMar DeRozan take in carrying the offensive load?

#2 Russell Westbrook has been a key playmaker for Sacramento — can he continue his recent assist production and be the catalyst that keeps the Kings competitive in Portland?

#3 How big of an impact can Malik Monk have as one of Sacramento’s leading scorers, especially with the Kings’ offense needing consistent perimeter shots?

#4 Keegan Murray offers size and defensive versatility — what matchup advantages might he have against Portland’s forwards, and can he help secure more rebounds for the Kings?

#5 With other young contributors like Maxime Raynaud seeing increased minutes due to injuries, will Sacramento’s bench production be enough to keep pace with Portland?

Join Jeremiah Salmonson for the Kings podcasts each Thursday at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

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. 

That’s Amaury News and Commentary: NBA Expansion to Las Vegas

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver is considering expansion teams to Las Vegas and Seattle that will be up for discussion sometime in 2026 (CNN photo)

That’s Amaury News and Commentary podcast: NBA Expansion to Las Vegas:

NBA Expansion to Las Vegas

That’s Amaury News Commentary

By Amaury Pi-González

A decision on expansion (potentially to 32 teams) is anticipated sometime in 2026. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver praised Las Vegas support for basketball. The Commissioner notes support in Las Vegas for the WNBA Aces, the Summer League, and the NBA Cup.  Seattle is also another city that the NBA is showing interest.

The Seattle SuperSonics played in Seattle for 41 seasons, from their inaugural 1967-1968 season until relocating to become the Oklahoma City Thunder after the 2007-2008 season. They were Seattle’s first major sports franchise and won one NBA championship in 1979 under legendary coach Lenny Wilkens.

I remember as I covered the Warriors visiting Seattle with the team and witnessed the support of the Supersonics fans, the arena where they played was right, where the World’s Fair was held in 1962, today known as Seattle Center,  next to the Space Needle and the Monorail. It was made even more famous in 1963 with Elvis as the star in the movie “It Happened At The World’s Fair”.

Expasion history: Last time the NBA expanded was in 2004 when the Charlotte Bobcats (now Hornets) joined as the league’s 30th team. While there’s been talk of expansion to Las Vegas and Seattle, no new teams have joined since the Bobcats’ debut.

More Hoops: Below made the rounds here in the Bay Area and in the national news of one Golden State Warriors Fan complaining to owner Joe Lacob about the struggles of the team recenlty even as Stephen Curry scoring in big numbers but still no victories.

(via Justdutari/Reddit, Alex Simon/SFGate)

A Warrior fan wrote Lacob: “Dear Joe, Please do something about this team. What Steph need to do every night to win? Drop 50 points? Team is need a real second option. Jimmy tool are being underutilized because he is playing as a power forward due to the small position players. We have no true center.”

Lacob replied: “You can’t be as frustrated as me. I’am working on it. It’s complicated. Style of play. Coaches desires regarding players. League trends. Jimmy is not the problem.”

Amaury Pi-Gonzalez – Cuban-born Pi-González is one of the pioneers of Spanish-language baseball play-by-play in America. Began as Oakland A’s Spanish-language voice in 1977 ending in 2024 (interrupted by stops with the Giants, Mariners and Angels). Voice of the Golden State Warriors from 1992 through 1998. 2010 inducted in the Bay Area Radio Hall of fame.

LaTerraza Mexican Restaurant 1027 2nd Street in Old Sacramento give them a call at 916-440-0874

From the second you step in the front door, the sounds of Latin America will gently seduce your ears and continue as you relax outdoors with your favorite cocktail enjoying the view. The wonderful flavors and aromas of our cuisine will not disappoint.

We use only the finest, freshest, local ingredients in every dish and every dish is prepared to order. Enjoy live mariachi music weekly and on special occasions, catch balet folklorico dance performances among other live entertainment. Come visit us and have a great time! Enjoy fast, friendly service, fantastic food & cocktails, music and allow us to share our beautiful Mexican heritage with you.

LaTerraza Mexican Restaurant at 1027 2nd Street in Old Sacramento give them a call at 916-440-0874.

Sacramento Kings podcast Barbara Mason: Kings fall short in loss to Timberwolves

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Minnesota Timberwolves forward Jaden McDaniels front right controls the ball against the Sacramento Kings forward Keegan Murray (left) in the first half at the Target Center at Minneapolis on Sun Dec 14, 2025 (AP News photo)

Sacramento Kings podcast Barbara Mason:

#1 Sacramento Kings (6-19) Zach LaVine struggled with the Minnesota Timberwolves (16-9) defense at times Sunday night — what adjustments do you think the Kings could make moving forward to get him more open looks?

#2 With Domantas Sabonis unavailable due to injury, how did that affect LaVine’s offensive rhythm, and what did you learn about the depth of like Keegan Murray and Maxime Raynaud who were asked to step up?

#3 Russell Westbrook brings veteran leadership — how did his court vision and playmaking help the Kings in key stretches Sunday night?

#4 DeMar DeRozan has been one of the Kings consistent scorers this season — how important is it for him to maintain aggression against tough defenses like Minnesota?

#5 How would you evaluate the Kings bench production Sunday night, particularly from guys like Malik Monk and Precious Achiuwa, given the adversity on the road?

Join Barbara Mason for the Sacramento Kings podcasts Mondays at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

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. 

Kings Fall Apart In Fourth Quarter Losing to Minnesota 117-103

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

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. 

Sacramento Kings podcast Tony Harvey: Kings looking at DeRozan and Westbrook to help shore up offense in Minnesota Sunday

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Denver Nuggets guard Jaden Pickett (24) drives on the Sacramento Kings Maxime Raynaud (left) at Golden One Center in Sacramento on Thu Dec 11, 2025 (AP News photo)

Sacramento Kings podcast Tony Harvey:

#1 Can Zach LaVine provide leadership and scoring for the Kings (6-19) against a tough Timberwolves defense? LaVine has been one of Sacramento’s primary scorers this season.

#2 How will DeMar DeRozan’s offense impact Sacramento’s chances in Minnesota — can he create buckets early and often? DeRozan is a veteran scorer who has been relied upon in clutch moments.

#3 With Domantas Sabonis playing a major role this season, how crucial will his presence (or absence due to injury status) be for the Kings.

#4 Will Russell Westbrook’s playmaking and energy spark a Sacramento offense that has struggled to find consistency? Westbrook’s veteran leadership and passing can be key.

#5 Can secondary contributors like Dennis Schröder, Malik Monk, or Maxime Raynaud step up to help balance the scoring and ease pressure on the Kings’ stars? Role players will be important in this road matchup.

Join Tony Harvey for the Sacramento Kings podcasts Saturdays at http://www.sportsradioservice.com

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. 

Kings Return Home, Fall Flat Against Nuggets in 136-105 Loss

Published on by Sports Radio ServiceLeave a comment

Nikola Jokic #15 of the Denver Nuggets backs in on Keegan Murray #13 of the Sacramento Kings in the first half at Golden 1 Center on December 11, 2025 in Sacramento, California. (Mandatory Photo Credit: Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)

By Jeremiah Salmonson

DOWNTOWN SACRAMENTO — The Sacramento Kings returned home after 10 days on the road on Thursday night to take on the Denver Nuggets. The Kings, who have been mostly playing their vets to start the 2025-2026 campaign, departed from that strategy and started rookies Maxime Raynaud and Nique Clifford in the game. The game tipped off at 7 p.m. PST and was the only game the Kings will play at home in the first 19 days of December. Thursday, the Kings fell to the Nuggets 136-105.

In the first quarter, the Kings held their own against the Nuggets in the first few minutes, but that quickly evaporated as the Kings were outscored by the Nuggets 41-26. The Kings dug themselves into an early-game 15-point deficit as Nikola Jokic had his way, scoring 16 first-quarter points. Malik Monk got going early for the Kings with nine first-quarter points to lead the team.

In the second quarter, it was more of the same from the Nuggets as they outscored the Kings 36-28. Jokic again led the team in scoring in the second quarter, dropping seven points to bring his first-half total to 23. Russell Westbrook was the only King really impacting the game on the offensive end in the second, as he scored 11 points for the Kings. The game went into halftime with the Kings trailing the Nuggets 77-54 and no answers for Nikola Jokic.

In the third quarter, the Nuggets continued to build their lead against the Kings. The Nuggets outscored the Kings 32-27 in the third quarter to take a 109-81 lead into the final frame of the game. Nikola Jokic continued his terror on the Kings and added 13 points for a three-quarter total of 36 points.

Jokic wouldn’t play the rest of the game and finished with 36 points, 12 rebounds, and eight assists in three quarters of action.

In the fourth quarter, the game was all but decided as the Kings waved the white flag. The Nuggets outscored the Kings 27-24 in the final quarter of the game to defeat the Kings by a 31-point, 136-105 margin. The Kings weren’t competitive at any point in the game as Denver fully outmatched them in every aspect of the game.

After the game, the Kings stressed togetherness in the locker room and at the podium. Maxime Raynaud, Malik Monk, and Doug Christie all emphatically said the team is together.

Up Next: The Kings travel to Minnesota to take on the Timberwolves at 4 p.m. PST on Sunday night.

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.