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Kings C Sabonis Continues Double-Double Streak Against Wembanyama, Spurs
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- Kings C Sabonis Continues Double-Double Streak Against Wembanyama, Spurs
(IMAGN IMAGES/Reuters Connect)
Heading to play against the San Antonio Spurs amidst an 0-3 start was a rough draw for the Sacramento Kings , who fell to the reigning Western Conference Champions 130-103 on Tuesday night.
The defensive end continues to be a struggle for Sacramento, who is giving up 125.5 points per game to opposing teams.
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But, the production from key players on the offensive end continues to be promising, especially from 3-time NBA All-Star big man Domantas Sabonis.
Against San Antonio, Sabonis looked comfortable against the Defensive Player of the Year Victor Wembanyama, scoring 16 points on 8-for-11 shooting against the 7-foot-6 Frenchman in the first half alone.
Sabonis did a great job of playing physical and using his strength to eliminate Wembanyama's length and shot-blocking ability.
His flurry of various pump fakes and footwork maneuvers were on display, finishing on both sides of the rim and once again dominating the glass.
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With another 14-rebound night, Sabonis posted his fourth straight double-double to start the season, leading the NBA.
Sabonis is far-and-away the league's leading rebounder, averaging 16.5 boards per game.
He also set a post-merger NBA record for most rebounds through a player's first three games of the season, hauling in 52.
After missing most of last season with a meniscus tear in his left knee, Sabonis has seemingly returned to All-Star level, while his shooting efficiencies are also towards the top of the league.
After starting the season a perfect 5-for-5 shooting in the season-opener, Sabonis picked up the aggressiveness, getting more shots, but remaining efficient.
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Through the opening four games, Sabonis' 72.1% shooting percentage from the field ranks No. 4 in the NBA.
He has also made his lone 3-point attempt, which is a promising sign coming off a year where he struggled from distance.
Having Sabonis feeling confident from the outside will open up lanes for players to drive, and add another element to Sabonis' ability to play-make.
With another eight assists against the Spurs, Sabonis remains in the top-10 league-wide in that category as well, as the former Gonzaga standout continues to serve as the Kings' offensive hub.
The next step for Sabonis and the Kings is getting in the win column, with Thursday's game against the New Orleans Pelicans presenting a good opportunity.
The Pelicans are also seeking their first victory of the year and are very undersized, presenting an opportunity for Sabonis to have a big impact.
