Kings 108, Heat 120: Well, That Wasn't So Bad
by Aykis16 on Feb 21, 2012 7:49 PM PST
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Coming into this game, I fully expected this to be one of the uglier games of the season. The Heat are really, really good, and the Kings are really, really bad on the road. So I was pleasantly surprised by the play of the team tonight in what might have been one of the best offensive performances of the season for Sacramento.
The Kings got off to a great start against the Heat, starting out with a 17-9 lead. Miami would come roaring back, but the Kings remained competitive through three quarters, thanks to some of the best ball movement of the season. The Kings finished with 24 assists, and would have had several more if players had caught the ball cleanly on fast breaks. The best part of the ball movement was how well the Kings were cutting off the ball, particularly Marcus Thornton, who finished with 23 points on 16 shots.
Isaiah Thomas, in his 3rd start, led the Kings in scoring with a career-high 24 points, of which 20 came in the 3rd quarter alone. That is the most points the Heat have allowed by an individual player in a quarter this season. Isaiah hit 5 threes in the quarter, as well as being fouled on another one. The 5 threes in the quarter ties a Sacramento-era record set by Jason Williams in 1999. The Kings as a team shot very well from three point range, making 13-27 overall, with Thomas, Thornton and Francisco Garcia hitting at least 3 each.
Despite the slow start for Miami, they turned it up big time from the 2nd quarter on. This team was clicking on all cylinders and answered every Kings run with one of their own. The team as a whole shot a ridiculous 55.6% from the field, and answered the Kings great three point shooting with a 10-23 performance of their own. Sacramento knew they couldn't guard the Heat one-on-one and resorted to a zone for much of the game, which stymied the Heat a bit at first. The thing about zones though is that they can easily be broken by good outside shooting and good slashing and passing, and the Heat have those two things in spades. Mario Chalmers took full advantage of the zone to the tune of 20 points, 18 of which came off his 6 three pointers.
Dwyane Wade could not be stopped no matter what defense the Kings threw at him, as he scored 30 points to go with 10 assists, 4 rebounds, 3 steals and 2 blocks in just 30 minutes of play. Chris Bosh (20 points, 10 rebounds) and LeBron James (18 points, 8 assists) played second and third fiddle to Wade, but were still hugely instrumental to Miami's victory, particularly on defense.
To win this game, the Kings needed everything to go right for them. A lot did tonight, but one that didn't was getting DeMarcus Cousins going. The Heat completely stymied the young big man, holding him to just 3-13 shooting for 9 points and 7 rebounds in 31 minutes. He did have 3 blocks and a couple charges drawn, as well as this particularly silly and simultaneously pretty play:
Cousins' counterpart in the frontcourt, Jason Thompson, had one of his best games this season, with a season-high 16 points on 7-12 shooting to go with 10 rebounds for the double-double. Thompson was killing the Heat on the offensive glass early, mopping up several of the Kings misses.
Keith Smart played a very tight rotation tonight, going only 8 men deep (not counting the last minute of the game where he substituted Hassan Whiteside and Tyler Honeycutt after the game had been decided). The bench consisted solely of Chuck Hayes (16 minutes), Francisco Garcia (22 minutes) and Donté Greene (15 minutes).
Garcia played for the first time in awhile due to a sore hip for John Salmons, which knocked him out of the contest. Garcia played pretty well for someone who has seen little to no court time in the past few weeks, scoring 11 points on 9 shots to go with 3 rebounds, 2 assists and a block.
Hayes finally showcased his excellent passing ability, operating out of the high post and dishing a couple of pretty bounce passes to cutters for easy buckets. He seems to be getting a bit more comfortable out there on the floor, although I don't like it when he's in the game without either Jason Thompson or DeMarcus Cousins, because then the Kings don't have a low post threat at all. Donté Greene (who played a lot at the 4 next to Hayes today) is a SF masquerading as a 4, and J.J. Hickson, who didn't play, has proven to be unreliable on both ends of the court.
One thing the Kings did poorly as a team was take care of the basketball. They had 15 turnovers, 10 of which came in the first half. Several of those turnovers were unforced, due to bad catches/passes or trying to do a little too much when something simpler would have been more effective. The Heat punished the Kings to the tune of 24 points off those turnovers.
I have to comment some more on the pure awesomeness that was Isaiah's 20 point third quarter. The Heat had gotten off to a bit of a roll right before halftime and continued right after the break. That's when a switch seemed to turn on in Isaiah's head that he was going to take over the game. And take over he did, at least offensively. Isaiah was absolutely on fire from downtown, making three point attempt after three point attempt. He was single-handedly keeping the Kings in the game at that point, because Miami couldn't be stopped on offense either. After his fifth three pointer went in, I was just left dumbfounded, shaking my head. Many of you know that I was hoping the Kings would draft Thomas this past summer, and was ecstatic when he fell to the Kings at 60 and they picked him. But never in my wildest dreams did I think Isaiah would be playing as well as he has been this season. I don't think anybody can say they saw it. I'm very, very happy that Isaiah is on the team, and think he's quickly solidifying his spot as an integral piece for the future.
The Kings finish up the road trip and the first half of the season tomorrow in Washington before heading into the All-Star break. The second half of the schedule will be easier in terms of the amount of home games, but the quality of opponent will be even better. Hopefully the Kings can win tomorrow and carry the momentum forward.
Post-Game Interviews via Kingsflix:
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I knew Isaiah was going to be better than his pick suggested.
That’s as much as I can claim right now. I hope he continues playing like this!
Oh well :(
On to the next game
"the only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time, the ones who never yawn or say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn like fabulous yellow roman candles exploding like spiders across the stars" — Jack Kerouac
by Normdog on Feb 21, 2012 7:54 PM PST reply actions 7 recs
We will surprise them next time.
"Should he just be renamed Player of the Week?" HeuristicLineup on Cousins.
by Slam_Dunk on Feb 21, 2012 8:11 PM PST up reply actions 6 recs
Hopefully we'll surprise the Wizards like this
"the only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time, the ones who never yawn or say a commonplace thing, but burn, burn, burn like fabulous yellow roman candles exploding like spiders across the stars" — Jack Kerouac
by Normdog on Feb 21, 2012 8:22 PM PST up reply actions 5 recs
When Miami Heat comes to our house, its on!
"Should he just be renamed Player of the Week?" HeuristicLineup on Cousins.
by Slam_Dunk on Feb 21, 2012 8:42 PM PST up reply actions 8 recs
unfortunately not until next year
35 and 31. I'm calling it now. Reke and Cousins 1-2 in most improved award both All-stars. Jimmer leads rookies in scoring, passing and Ole's. Make 2nd round of playoffs and Salmons is not here by seasons end.
What are you talking about?
We’ll see them in the NBA finals! Revenge will be sweet.
Definitely
Playing at this level consistently will win you games. I wish the Kings played at such a high level against lesser opponents, they seem to play up to their competition.
Author of NBA Mashups. Follow me on Twitter here.
I agree
Kings play list this tomorrow, they dominate..
Smart needs to ignite the fire under this young team. I know he’s preaching it, but they need to play like this every night
by HeuristicLineup on Feb 21, 2012 8:02 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
The thing that stood out for me this game was that we didn't fold under the pressure of multiple Miami runs
Typically, when Jimmer is faced with a double team his response is to turn the ball over. Usually when the Kings are faced with multiple runs by their opponent they give up and the game turns into a loss. In tonight’s game the Heat repeatably made runs and instead of losing their confidence and fading into oblivion our boys rallied back with runs of their own. Izzy was the main reason why we stayed in the game during the 3rd quarter but a run is a run.
As I have said multiple times over the past two seasons, we are well past the point of claiming moral victories in this rebuild. Well past. The Kings played respectably tonight and looked like a real NBA ball club against the leagues best. There were points where I actually harbored fantasies that we might pull this out. If Cuz played his normal game it would have put the Kings in a place where they might have won. On the other hand, 24 points off of turnovers was enough to be the difference.
Isaiah Thomas played incredibly well tonight and just at the point where Grant said the team was looking starstruck started to rain down threes on the Heat who hadn’t bothered spending much defensive effort on him. His self confidence is remarkable and he and Jimmer are the ying and yang of this years rookies actually getting playing time. I think that Aykis tweeted during last game when Izzy went off that it was InsanIT. As badly as the Kings have been this year IT has been the high point of the year for me. Unlike Aykis, I had no idea who he was when the Kings drafted him but I’m sure glad we did.
Frances Amthor: I think you're a very stupid person. You look stupid, you're in a stupid business, and you're on a stupid case.
Philip Marlowe: I get it. I'm stupid Farewell My Lovely (1975)
And in this vein I get what I want how I want it because I am the customer. You might want to remember that you thieving scumbag mongrel bitches.
nate21h@evilcowtowninc.com
It was a fun game
I turned it on in the 2nd quarter when I saw that the score was close and I was glad I did, that 3rd quarter was awesome, both teams going back and forth hitting 3s, Tyreke had some really nifty drives.
That one drive where he basically had a windmill reverse layup?
That’s the kind of thing that makes you think Tyreke is a special player.
Author of NBA Mashups. Follow me on Twitter here.
Tyreke is a special player
He just hasn’t quite put it all together yet. He will, sooner or later, and then he will be an all-star.
時國王驕奢，不遵典憲。 《後漢書》
by sj60615 on Feb 21, 2012 8:09 PM PST up reply actions 3 recs
The little guy did good. I'm going to dance for IT.
"Should he just be renamed Player of the Week?" HeuristicLineup on Cousins.
by Slam_Dunk on Feb 21, 2012 8:01 PM PST reply actions 6 recs
I still think perhaps the main reason Isaiah continues to improve
is he has Bobby Jackson in his ear every day, teaching him, helping him most effectively utilize his talents. Unfortunately we don’t seem to have anyone teaching Jimmer how to play his style most effectively — think Mike Bibby wants to come coach when he hangs ’em up?
Now all we need is a 3. And maybe a 4, though JT’s been playing great.
時國王驕奢，不遵典憲。 《後漢書》
If Jimmer can learn to shoot as well as IT did tonight, I could care less about his defense.
As it stands, he has neither.
時國王驕奢，不遵典憲。 《後漢書》
totally disagree
jimmers shot is just fine.you can’t say that jimmer isn’t shooting well when he is getting like 3 or 4 shots a game. I guarantee that if he was getting atleast ten shots a game his percentage would be similar to IT tonight. He is a volume scorer. People say jimmer is playing badly which is why he’s on the bench when really that’s not true. Its moreso because IT is playing out of his mind.
"Props"
This slang expression has its origin in Black English.Though props has several slang senses, here it means 'proper or due respect; compliments, credit, admiration, or praise.Successful people who have gotten their props should then "give props to their peeps," that is, they should (at least partially) credit their parents and friends.
According to Clarence Major's Juba to Jive: A Dictionary of Black American Slang, the Black English term props also refers to any form of support or protection. So your props can include your friends, your family, and even your switchblade.
Jimmer's Screwed.
Smart said in an interview he likes IT;s game because he plays like he is an extention of him, Now that he is starting Jimmer will only get limited mins. Salmons did’nt play tonight, so you would think there would be minutes for Jimmer. Well i guess smart has a Jeremy Lin redo, Hope he doesn’t screw this one up too. Oh and we lost again.
There is a spot for Jimmer if he becomes better than Salmons
He will never be as good defensively but can be better at everything else. There is 144 minutes for the smalls, right now Reke will get 36 Thornton at least 32 and IT 30…..that leaves at most 46 minutes that Jimmer could split with whoever becomes our SF. Its up to Jimmer , and some players like Peja do better in longer stints to get into the flow. They have given Jimmer 20 a game to ask for 30 without performance is just dumb. This is not a kids rec league, you have to play your way on the court
35 and 31. I'm calling it now. Reke and Cousins 1-2 in most improved award both All-stars. Jimmer leads rookies in scoring, passing and Ole's. Make 2nd round of playoffs and Salmons is not here by seasons end.
Jimmer will hopefully become a great NBA player
But as far as volume is concerned, in the 10 games this season when he has taken 10 or more shots, he has never shot better than 50% FGM (which he only did once) and is averaging 37.5%. This also nearly exactly matches his current FG average for the season (37.4%), and from 3 (37.3%).
His stroke is butter smooth but he really hasn’t found his range yet and until he figures it out (and/or starts outplaying Marcus Thornton) he will not see great amounts of playing time. Welcome to the NBA.
時國王驕奢，不遵典憲。 《後漢書》
its called being able to play through your mistakes
which I have yet to see smart letting jimmer do. Whereas IT can play through every mistake which he has taken full advantage of. Look..I’m fully supportive of IT getting all this playing time but atleast try to develop your lottery pick and allow him to play through a couple of mistakes instead of benching him at the first sign of trouble.Its a confidence killer. He has steadily gotten better and his stats per minute of play have been very similar to Isaiahs
"Props"
This slang expression has its origin in Black English.Though props has several slang senses, here it means 'proper or due respect; compliments, credit, admiration, or praise.Successful people who have gotten their props should then "give props to their peeps," that is, they should (at least partially) credit their parents and friends.
According to Clarence Major's Juba to Jive: A Dictionary of Black American Slang, the Black English term props also refers to any form of support or protection. So your props can include your friends, your family, and even your switchblade.
Wow
That is a damn heavy prescription of Jimmer-colored glasses you are wearing.
PS check minutes played
35 and 31. I'm calling it now. Reke and Cousins 1-2 in most improved award both All-stars. Jimmer leads rookies in scoring, passing and Ole's. Make 2nd round of playoffs and Salmons is not here by seasons end.
I'm talking about his minutes as of late
not seasons average. Of course he under performed with the high expectations that were put on him. What you need to understand is that jimmer and IT were playing at a equal level much of the season but that only helped Isaiah since that level of play was exceeding expectations for a 60th pick wheras jimmer was underperforming for being a lottery pick so that distorts things when really they were pretty even.
Its true jimmer got a lot more playing time early in the season and underperformed but Isaiah was at the same level of play. Right when both seemed to be showing growth and understanding of the game coach decides to fully give the reigns to IT where he has obviously thrived whereas jimmers minutes are pretty much gone even though he has improved. That is where my problem lies. I don’t believe you need to sacrifice one rookie for the other. Both need confidence from their coach for their own growth as rookies.
"Props"
This slang expression has its origin in Black English.Though props has several slang senses, here it means 'proper or due respect; compliments, credit, admiration, or praise.Successful people who have gotten their props should then "give props to their peeps," that is, they should (at least partially) credit their parents and friends.
According to Clarence Major's Juba to Jive: A Dictionary of Black American Slang, the Black English term props also refers to any form of support or protection. So your props can include your friends, your family, and even your switchblade.
by mmarcum on Feb 22, 2012 12:09 AM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Actually
Jimmer needs to develop some SELF-confidence.
My read on them is that IT is a more emotional guy and Jimmer is more analytical. Jimmer will get it, but he is overthinking his game right now.
that I can agree with
Part of the problem is confidence which the coach can heavily affect. I just hope smart is validating him even though he is benching him a lot more.
"Props"
This slang expression has its origin in Black English.Though props has several slang senses, here it means 'proper or due respect; compliments, credit, admiration, or praise.Successful people who have gotten their props should then "give props to their peeps," that is, they should (at least partially) credit their parents and friends.
According to Clarence Major's Juba to Jive: A Dictionary of Black American Slang, the Black English term props also refers to any form of support or protection. So your props can include your friends, your family, and even your switchblade.
Funny thing, though
The 10/60 picks are currently combining to produce at a level that we would have been happy with at the beginning of the season. It’s just that the #60 is producing like a #10 pick, and vice versa.
SACTOWN ROYALTY - Try our thick creamy shakes!
Smart has weighed both players production and defense
IT is the easy choice. Jimmer was shooting a great percentage from three over a 5 game stretch when he finally got confident, but his defense was still a liability. He got benched and hasn’t played confident since. Thomas has been shooting the three incredibly well and has somehow managed to keep himself from being a defensive liability despite his size. If IT is producing points/assists just as well as Jimmer (and he is), Smart has to break the tie by evaluating defense. Jimmer’s defense just isn’t there yet. As much as I like him, he’s gotta sit until he can keep from being exploited for and-1s by the opposing team every game.
didnt get to watch the game really
heard some of the first quarter on the radio, and caught some of the second house off and on at my house…
….but seemed like a good performance at least, tyreke bounced back a bit, isiah continues to roll
we MUST beat washington, no 0-7 road trips please
On Any Other Night, Against Almost Any Other Team
The Kings, for the most part, played very, very well. The Heat are good without really even trying to be, and when they turn it on, well… watch out below.
Now, if the Kings can play at this level (and that’s no automatic to be sure) then they will win their share of games. In fact, if they can play with that kind of tenacity then they could be a .500 team. And give them a year or so, and a couple more veteran pieces, and they could be very good. A Playoff team to be sure – even in the tough Western Conference.
after tomorrow
22 of 33 at home.
35 and 31. I'm calling it now. Reke and Cousins 1-2 in most improved award both All-stars. Jimmer leads rookies in scoring, passing and Ole's. Make 2nd round of playoffs and Salmons is not here by seasons end.
We are 10-22, TEN and TWENTY-TWO!
“Carry this momentum?” We have a 7 game losing streak. “That wasn’t so bad?” We LOST! By double digits. What are we playing for? There are no moral victories in sports. What? We want to be able to say, “Well, we aren’t the worst team in basketball!”
Shoot me; I want to see Jimmer play. And for all those that say he sucks at defense, look at the scoreboard whenever he doesn’t play – the team sucks at defense. We give up 100 points anyway. Let’s at least see what he can do offensively with the ball in his hands for 30 mins for a few games. At least that way we will know what we spent a 1st round draft pick on.
I'm confused.
You want to see the team win, or you want to see Jimmer play?
"If you're going to lead the orchestra, you have to turn your back on the audience." -Geoff Petrie
by AnotherStupidSN on Feb 21, 2012 8:30 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
I was looking at all these funny cat gifs
and reading positive comments…
And then you just have to come in here with attitude.
Why Jimmer?
"Guys, I'll tell u what... With a few draft picks and some worthwhile trades,
we could make the playoffs in 3 or 4 years."
We didnt lose by 30 so there!And you wanna put Jimmer in for who..Isaiah..LOLOLOLOLOL after this game i would suggest jimmer get used to DNP if he is behind Tyreke and Isaiah
Founder of Isaiah as Mogwai..
Exactly, ride the IT wave
At this point, I wouldn’t take IT out for anyone. Not Tyreke or MT or Jimmer. IT adds something that we don’t have. Maybe he can motivate Jimmer to work as hard as IT did to get where he is by finding a better mix of aggressive shooting and playmaking.
by SharkKings49 on Feb 21, 2012 9:21 PM PST up reply actions
Altus...don't blame us blame Jimmer
He has been beaten out by the 60th pick in the draft. That is not the preferred result of the King’s organization. They would like Jimmer to be at 20 and 10. Jimmer was given more minutes early to prove he belongs in the LU . He didn’t. IT also didn’t at first but now he is playeing in a way the coach can’t take him out. If JF was doing that he would be in.
The coach sees all the practices and if Jimmer was tearing it up he would play.
He needs to play his way in, it is not a gift.
However, we only have 5 people playing good on this team. Jimmer will have a lot more chances to play his way into the rotation. Like Cisco tonight, did not play his way in, but not sucking completely made him look decent for a reserve on this team.
If jimmer can play his way into the rotation on this team , he is not ready.
35 and 31. I'm calling it now. Reke and Cousins 1-2 in most improved award both All-stars. Jimmer leads rookies in scoring, passing and Ole's. Make 2nd round of playoffs and Salmons is not here by seasons end.
by ElRonToro on Feb 21, 2012 8:52 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
last sentene can = can't
35 and 31. I'm calling it now. Reke and Cousins 1-2 in most improved award both All-stars. Jimmer leads rookies in scoring, passing and Ole's. Make 2nd round of playoffs and Salmons is not here by seasons end.
You don't have to be happy about 10-22, of course.
But you need to put down the caffeine-free Kool-aid, chief. The rookie on the team who should be playing, is playing.
I like your Jimmer very much. I do not like your JimmerJihadis™. - Ghandi Sims
Rocks are free, and slingshots easily stolen. And for a limited time, every third person who follows me on Twitter (andy_sims) gets a free ice cream cone.
Which I will eat.
by andy sims on Feb 21, 2012 8:52 PM PST up reply actions 2 recs
We didn't lose because of offense
we lost because of defense. Therefor, no reason to play Jimmer. You don’t have much of a case tonight. save it for nights when we score in the 70’s.
btw we are pace for 25-37 accounting for H&A
I think we will do a tad better than that. Not bad for a team with 5 players
35 and 31. I'm calling it now. Reke and Cousins 1-2 in most improved award both All-stars. Jimmer leads rookies in scoring, passing and Ole's. Make 2nd round of playoffs and Salmons is not here by seasons end.
We're 7-5 at home
Could go on a run after the AS break
That seems about right.
Somewhere in the 24-27 range.
Author of NBA Mashups. Follow me on Twitter here.
Kings lose. No big deal
Gonzaga Bulldogs - 11 straight WCC regular-season championships. 13 straight NCAA tournament appearances.
by zag392009 on Feb 21, 2012 8:36 PM PST reply actions 5 recs
Boy, put Thomas into the starting lineup for Salmons and suddenly the bench
suuuuuuuuucks.
SACTOWN ROYALTY - Try our thick creamy shakes!
Smart didn't finish what he comitted to doing
By starting Thomas, which I love, he should have moved Reke to sg, moved Marcus to the 6th man and started Donte. But he’d rather go small and sacrifice both our bench scoring and defense.
Absolutely agree
I have never understood why the Kings not only don’t play Donte more, but why they also don’t start him. He’s our best small forward.
"Clowns hate how I lock this down, but if they think I'm obnoxious now, wait til I pop Cristal." - Copywrite
Jimmer's probably our best bench player
and unfortunately is at the position where we have three guys who all play a bunch of minutes at his position.
Author of NBA Mashups. Follow me on Twitter here.
then he should be traded for a position that the kings actually need
"Props"
This slang expression has its origin in Black English.Though props has several slang senses, here it means 'proper or due respect; compliments, credit, admiration, or praise.Successful people who have gotten their props should then "give props to their peeps," that is, they should (at least partially) credit their parents and friends.
According to Clarence Major's Juba to Jive: A Dictionary of Black American Slang, the Black English term props also refers to any form of support or protection. So your props can include your friends, your family, and even your switchblade.
Wow, it's the guy's first season
And already people are saying he should be traded based on the playing time of half a season!
Never Turn Back - Crush 40
Being a Fan: 10% luck, 20% skill, 15% concentrated power of will, 5% pleasure, 50% pain, and 100% reason to remember the name!
by raiderking21 on Feb 21, 2012 11:36 PM PST up reply actions
jus saying if the kings are to loaded
in one position then trade for a position they actually need.Its nothing against jimmer
"Props"
This slang expression has its origin in Black English.Though props has several slang senses, here it means 'proper or due respect; compliments, credit, admiration, or praise.Successful people who have gotten their props should then "give props to their peeps," that is, they should (at least partially) credit their parents and friends.
According to Clarence Major's Juba to Jive: A Dictionary of Black American Slang, the Black English term props also refers to any form of support or protection. So your props can include your friends, your family, and even your switchblade.
And what do you perceive his value to be right now?
I doubt that the Kings would get much for Fredette right now, so what’s the rush in dealing him, unless the motivation to move him is more for Jimmer’s sake than the team’s.
SACTOWN ROYALTY - Try our thick creamy shakes!
Valid point.
Its really for both parties, Kings fill a position they need and JImmer can succeed somewhere else. If IT continues to play this way I dont see coach really needing Jimmer since that position is loaded, which is why you trade otherwise his value will continue to diminish.But on that same note if Smart sees more in him and really would like to develop JImmer in the offseason then I say wait and reevaluate next season when hes actually had ample time to learn and grow. It really depends on how Smart sees the situation. Lets just hope this doesnt turn into another Lin or Curry situation for Smart.
"Props"
This slang expression has its origin in Black English.Though props has several slang senses, here it means 'proper or due respect; compliments, credit, admiration, or praise.Successful people who have gotten their props should then "give props to their peeps," that is, they should (at least partially) credit their parents and friends.
According to Clarence Major's Juba to Jive: A Dictionary of Black American Slang, the Black English term props also refers to any form of support or protection. So your props can include your friends, your family, and even your switchblade.
IT, Reke and Thornton can be a very good 3 guard rotation
but I hate seeing them in the floor at the same time. I hate small ball. No one has ever won with it. Sure the offense looked better, but we got killed on the boards and on defense.
Either IT or Marcus needs to be the 6th man, and we need Donte at sf. Why does Smart only coach one side of the floor? Why does he only play Donte at pf? Why did he have Donte at pf and Hayes at c? What did he think would happen with such a small lineup?
He needs to figure a way to get the most out of our 3 guards while not sacrificing the other end of the court.
I'm with you, but I would put MT as the 6th man so we can pair IT with Reke.
Greene could start at the 3 with JT and Cousins.
"Should he just be renamed Player of the Week?" HeuristicLineup on Cousins.
I'd use Marcus as a 6th man too
Is Smart scared to do it? Makes too much sense. Enough shots for Thomas/Reke/Cousins, strengthen our defense and rebounding, AND strengthen our bench.
Why the hell not?
My thought, too. Maybe he is concerned how MT would accept it having a rookie, IT
essentially replace him in the starting lineup as a guard.
"Should he just be renamed Player of the Week?" HeuristicLineup on Cousins.
That would make sense
but at some point he has to try it. I don’t think he sees how important can be as a sf, because I honestly don’t think Smart sees him as a sf, which worries me especially with our current crop of sf’s.
Hard to say what Smart will do. He has slowly made some adjustments.
Now that he can see that IT is working out as the starting PG and the team can function without Salmons, he might decide to tinker a little bit more.
"Should he just be renamed Player of the Week?" HeuristicLineup on Cousins.
I agree 36 minutes each
35 and 31. I'm calling it now. Reke and Cousins 1-2 in most improved award both All-stars. Jimmer leads rookies in scoring, passing and Ole's. Make 2nd round of playoffs and Salmons is not here by seasons end.
You know the after parties at immoral victories are much more fun
35 and 31. I'm calling it now. Reke and Cousins 1-2 in most improved award both All-stars. Jimmer leads rookies in scoring, passing and Ole's. Make 2nd round of playoffs and Salmons is not here by seasons end.
by ElRonToro on Feb 21, 2012 8:55 PM PST up reply actions 3 recs
Hilarious LOL!!!
"I gotta have more cowbell"
by CowbellKings on Feb 21, 2012 9:04 PM PST up reply actions
Isaiah Thomas has arrived. It's moral victory time.
"Should he just be renamed Player of the Week?" HeuristicLineup on Cousins.
by Slam_Dunk on Feb 21, 2012 8:58 PM PST up reply actions 5 recs
Yeah!!! Isaiahmania!!!!!
"I gotta have more cowbell"
by CowbellKings on Feb 21, 2012 9:00 PM PST up reply actions
This game was both enjoyable & frustrating
If the team played like this every night we’d be a .500 team & possibly fighting for an 8th spot. I just don’t get it.
Anyways I loved the tight rotation. I was screaming for it after the last game & I guess Smart reads the boards ;)
When Whiteside came in Grant asked Jerry what he needs to improve on to get some time on the court. Jerry said everything except blocking shots lol
I’m glad we have possibly solved our PG problem. Now we can focus on getting a legit SF & using the amnesty on Salmons. Get us a good SF & move MT to a killer 6th man. That would solidify our bench.
IT, Reke, Chandler/AK/Batum, JT, Cousins
With Jimmer, MT23, Donte, Chuck off the bench.
That would be a pretty solid team with a full training camp & preseason.
by Allbenji on Feb 21, 2012 9:02 PM PST via mobile reply actions
Couldn't watch the game so..
Why did Cousins only play 30 minutes with 2 more fouls left?
Looks like Kings are improving and ready to win more games?
Mirror on the wall
Here we are again.
by Skeptic con Urquell on Feb 21, 2012 9:02 PM PST reply actions
DMC had 4 fouls going into 4th
and picking them up at an alarming rate in the 3rd. I think he had 0 or 1 at half
35 and 31. I'm calling it now. Reke and Cousins 1-2 in most improved award both All-stars. Jimmer leads rookies in scoring, passing and Ole's. Make 2nd round of playoffs and Salmons is not here by seasons end.
DMC had 4 fouls going into 4th
2 more to go might be another 15 minutes though. Unless he was hurt I’d want him on the court till the refs made him leave.
Mirror on the wall
Here we are again.
by Skeptic con Urquell on Feb 21, 2012 9:53 PM PST up reply actions
Question for you guys regarding the recaps
Would you like me to start embedding the Post-Game Interviews with the Coach and Players that Kingsflix posts to Youtube?
Author of NBA Mashups. Follow me on Twitter here.
by Aykis16 on Feb 21, 2012 9:25 PM PST reply actions 5 recs
Definitely.
Thanks.
"He forced it to go in the net, and that's a good thing."
"Generally speaking, the ball is the only thing that can score."
-Jerry Reynolds
Alright sounds good
Today’s have been added. These might not always be available at the time I write the recaps, but I’ll try to add them in as soon as they become available.
Author of NBA Mashups. Follow me on Twitter here.
Absolutely. I always wait and listen to the coach.
"Should he just be renamed Player of the Week?" HeuristicLineup on Cousins.
That sounds fantastic.
Just spare us the Jim Grey v. opposing star interviews…thanks.
I miss Big Mike and his Arco Thunder monologue.
by RJinFairOaks on Feb 21, 2012 10:27 PM PST up reply actions 4 recs
Just an aside....does anyone have the Kings record with Jim Grey on the sidelines?
I am pretty sure it is a goose-egg this year. Or maybe he was at NaArco Arena for the Laker game opening night…
"First we get jobs, then we get the khakis, then we get the chicks."
Sportscenter just did a short Bio on IT22
showing how he went #60 in the draft before they showed him go off in the third quarter. Lin status here we come!
by Mechanical Shift on Feb 21, 2012 9:41 PM PST reply actions 2 recs
It was really good... probably 20 secs long plus his highlights in the game
which is an eternity in SC time
by Mechanical Shift on Feb 21, 2012 9:44 PM PST up reply actions
I already
saw some talk to Twitter last night about how the Lin story is soooooo much better because the Kings aren’t winning, and IT22 wasn’t cut. HATE HATE HATE.
How about both are great stories?
formerly what_the_crap
If Kings arent winning
then no one really cares how one player is playing except Kings fans. If Kings were winning these I can guarantee that IT would be getting alot more coverage. Ill be honest sometimes I get frustrated that alot of Kings fans are satisified with losing by 15 instead of 30 and having a player like IT shine.Hey we lost again but this player sure played well! Celebrate!!! We should never be satisfied with losing.. no matter who it was to and what the margin was. I know we have become accustomed to it but we as Kings fans deserve better.
"Props"
This slang expression has its origin in Black English.Though props has several slang senses, here it means 'proper or due respect; compliments, credit, admiration, or praise.Successful people who have gotten their props should then "give props to their peeps," that is, they should (at least partially) credit their parents and friends.
According to Clarence Major's Juba to Jive: A Dictionary of Black American Slang, the Black English term props also refers to any form of support or protection. So your props can include your friends, your family, and even your switchblade.
I don't think that anyone is satisfied with losing
I think that there are those that are looking for positives during another losing season. To date, those positives would be Cousins and Thomas, who are both playing beyond expectations. Next would come Thompson, who is at least meeting (if not exceeding) expectations.
And I will add this – if Fredette were doing what Thomas were doing, there would be quite a bit of attention given to it, given Jimmer’s ardent followers.
SACTOWN ROYALTY - Try our thick creamy shakes!
I think that there are those that are looking for positives during another losing season.
this is a very good draft coming up so this is a good year to lose if one has to lose. Evans, Cousins, and a new first rounder might be the core of the future. IIRC Sac has some protection on their traded first round pick?
Mirror on the wall
Here we are again.
by Skeptic con Urquell on Feb 22, 2012 3:07 PM PST up reply actions
Who said we were all happy with losing?
I, for one, am not. What I am happy about is that the Kings seem to have gotten a decent PG with the 60th pick in the draft. Those types of steals can make a team better. Are they winning now? No. But I guarantee you they’re in a better position to win now, getting a guy like Thomas, then not.
I personally am not a fan who expects my team to make it to the playoffs every year. I don’t like watching them lose, but I’m not going to get all angry and upset cause they’re not the Miami Heat right now. Hell, this team almost left last year, and could very well leave this year. I will take a horrible team over no team. I do want them to win, and I think they will here soon … but just because they’re not now doesn’t mean I’m going to get all pissed off about it.
formerly what_the_crap
by Dub_TC on Feb 22, 2012 12:47 PM PST up reply actions 1 recs
Just seen this tweet from Jimmer's brother @tjfredette
https://twitter.com/#!/tjfredette/status/172194084767801344
Don’t know if he’s referring to Keith Smart. Probably mad his brother isn’t getting any playing time
can we please get rid of this interim coach who should be an assistant at best and bring in a real head coach!!
Gotta love family members..
at least its an unbiased opinion
by Mechanical Shift on Feb 21, 2012 9:45 PM PST up reply actions
He's lucky Westphal isn't still coach
or that little tweet would have suspended Jimmer for the next game
by Mechanical Shift on Feb 21, 2012 9:46 PM PST up reply actions
He's lucky Westphal isn't still coach
he’s lucky Smart don’t invite him in to talk it over with Cousins?
Mirror on the wall
Here we are again.
by Skeptic con Urquell on Feb 21, 2012 9:55 PM PST up reply actions
maybe he needs Smart to talk it over dinner
It worked for Cousins
by SharkKings49 on Feb 21, 2012 9:59 PM PST up reply actions
Blame it on the IT breakout and the GM's mismatched roster, not the coach
Jimmer should be playing, but IT pushed him out of the lineup. Part of this is Petrie bringing in too many small guards when we need someone to play SF.
by SharkKings49 on Feb 21, 2012 9:51 PM PST up reply actions
Anyone who doesn't understand Jimmer being behind Reke, MT23, & IT in the rotation is delusional
Family or not.
by Allbenji on Feb 21, 2012 9:53 PM PST via mobile up reply actions 2 recs
TJ should stop tweeting.
I understand his frustration but it’s ridiculous to claim that Smart isn’t playing Jimmer because he doesn’t like him
by Reke_Havoc13 on Feb 21, 2012 9:58 PM PST up reply actions
Blame it on Petrie for giving us three 3rd guards and 3 3rd bigs on the same team
by elSAVinator on Feb 21, 2012 10:00 PM PST up reply actions
Too be honest
No one expected IT to be better than Jimmer at this point
by Reke_Havoc13 on Feb 21, 2012 10:05 PM PST up reply actions
I did
but I’ve watched IT in college for 3 years.
by Skeptical Dawg on Feb 21, 2012 10:07 PM PST up reply actions
I did, too.
I also watched him for three years.
I said after he was picked last that he would be a starter by the end of the season.
I also said he would evenually be an all-time great PG if he could shoot more consistly, for a higher percentage, which I think he will do. He could also stand to improve his right hand, but his game is solid — and will get much better if he is given much more esponsibility for running the offense.
IT is a great player and a great person with a fantastic attitude. He did not have the summer league to get ready, he only got a few minutes in a couple pre-season exhibition games, he sat on the bench getting only scratch minutes the first 6 weeks of the season, but he kept his great attitude and never complained, except for saying, “I’m sick of losing.” He goes into every game thinking they can win it. He is already the hardest worker and emerging as one of the leaders on the team.
We in Seattle always knew how good IT was. The Kings were very fortunate to land him. IT is just getting started. The more minutes and responsibility he is given, the better he will get.
The smart move is to hand IT the keys and let him drive.
.
by bobk3333 on Feb 22, 2012 1:53 AM PST up reply actions 2 recs
that probably won't help anything
Right now IT is clearly outplaying Jimmer. In a shortened rotation Jimmer is the odd man out. It’s not so much a negative thing with Jimmer as it is a positive thing with IT.
With the way IT is currently playing, he’s outplaying every pg in the draft outside of Kyrie. Jimmer does need to toughen up though. Gets trapped and/or loses the ball too much.
It was retweeted by tyreke's brother
Anyone see any significance of that?
by brianspider on Feb 21, 2012 10:28 PM PST up reply actions
Yikes.
I miss Big Mike and his Arco Thunder monologue.
by RJinFairOaks on Feb 21, 2012 10:30 PM PST up reply actions
Somebody should tweet TJ, tell him he doesn't know what he's talking about, & shutup
It’d be better to get rid of Fredette, who the Kings should never have acquired in the 1st place
"Clowns hate how I lock this down, but if they think I'm obnoxious now, wait til I pop Cristal." - Copywrite
TJ keep going on and on
not good. Not making life any easier for his brother. Given Smart wants to keep a tight 8 man rotation it appears, TJ will need to shut up.
Watch your smart mouth, whitey.
TJ’s a baller and a rapper.
He sounds like 70% of 14 year-olds you see at a suburban mall, and he has the scent of douche all over him.
I like your Jimmer very much. I do not like your JimmerJihadis™. - Ghandi Sims
Rocks are free, and slingshots easily stolen. And for a limited time, every third person who follows me on Twitter (andy_sims) gets a free ice cream cone.
Which I will eat.
Hey!
I used to be one of those 14 year olds!
Never Turn Back - Crush 40
Being a Fan: 10% luck, 20% skill, 15% concentrated power of will, 5% pleasure, 50% pain, and 100% reason to remember the name!
by raiderking21 on Feb 21, 2012 11:37 PM PST up reply actions
I seriously cant stop laughin at this.
"Props"
This slang expression has its origin in Black English.Though props has several slang senses, here it means 'proper or due respect; compliments, credit, admiration, or praise.Successful people who have gotten their props should then "give props to their peeps," that is, they should (at least partially) credit their parents and friends.
According to Clarence Major's Juba to Jive: A Dictionary of Black American Slang, the Black English term props also refers to any form of support or protection. So your props can include your friends, your family, and even your switchblade.
Just watched the IT video above
Did you see/feel the disappointment? Every member of the Kings should look/feel that way. He HATES losing! That attitude is why he is currently the most important member on the Kings.
by rstewartwest on Feb 21, 2012 10:53 PM PST reply actions 2 recs
Yeah individual stats really don't mean jack to IT
by Skeptical Dawg on Feb 21, 2012 10:55 PM PST up reply actions
Damn straight. A basket, steal, block or assist is a means to an end--winning. Hope it becomes contagious.
by rstewartwest on Feb 21, 2012 10:57 PM PST up reply actions
Yeah I like IT, it's kinda funny
The reporter keeps trying to prod him about his career high and he’s like why do you keep asking me that? We lost. That’s IT.
by Skeptical Dawg on Feb 21, 2012 11:01 PM PST up reply actions
Exactly. To me, IT represents the opposite of everything that is wrong with this team.
Beyond the attitude even. It is the bball iq, the hustle, the unselfishness, Infuse his attitude and basketball smarts into the bodies and skill sets of the rest of the team members and were not talking playoffs, were talking how high we’ll be seeded.
by rstewartwest on Feb 21, 2012 11:06 PM PST up reply actions
I'd like to see Reke come out pissed off after a loss for once
I love Reke, but most great players after a loss come out in attack mode the next game, fired up ready to win. Don’t see that from Reke too much. Passive sometimes.
There is no cookie cutter for greatness
let the internal guys be internal
35 and 31. I'm calling it now. Reke and Cousins 1-2 in most improved award both All-stars. Jimmer leads rookies in scoring, passing and Ole's. Make 2nd round of playoffs and Salmons is not here by seasons end.
Reke isn't the most outspoken guy
He also doesn’t look all that excited when the Kings win.
Author of NBA Mashups. Follow me on Twitter here.
Agree. I think that's just Reke's personality.
Doesn’t show much externally. He may very well be pissed after every loss, and we wouldn’t know it.
I dont know how much more "attack mode" Tyreke could have been tonight...
He was 9-18 for the game, but was 7-10 at the rim against three of the best wing defenders in the league. Also had double digit assists.
He is not really the vocal leader, but that doesn’t mean losses do not affect his game.
"First we get jobs, then we get the khakis, then we get the chicks."
Yeah, I can't think of any great players that have been historically understated
SACTOWN ROYALTY - Try our thick creamy shakes!
Like D-Will did against Lin the other night...
He put the world on notice with that performance.
"soon as you see the poke coming, shut your eye lid."
- Danago
"Anderson fought with no ribs. Aldo fought with no foot, go do the math."
- Danago
IT IT IT IT IT!!! What a great break for the Kings.
Absolutely love IT. His attitude. His game. His effort. His impact on his team. Really, a joy to watch play, and finally some hope for Kings resolution. He’s the PG for now, and hopefully a long time. IT finally allows Reke to slide to the 2, and see how that role works.
20 points in the 3rd Quarter.
.
Hanging 20 to keep the Kings in the game against the League leading Heat in Miami.
Following his 23 point outing with a new career high one game later. Great seeing a player blossom before our eyes.
On a lesser note: John Salmons out (I am not sure why) opening the door for a young SF to come in and take his spot. Donté freed for a 15 minute night of 1-6, 2 points. Instead, lost on the bench vet, Cisco Garcia with 11 points in 22 minutes and featured in an ESPN/NBA GameTime highlight (blocked by LeBron who chest passed 70 ft to Wade over DMC’s hands for the oop hoop) grabs the reigns. For the 3 spot tomorrow night: who’s got next?
by betweentheeyes on Feb 21, 2012 11:39 PM PST reply actions 3 recs
Meh...
I get your frustration with Donte not getting time, but Cisco did fine. Don’t lay it on him.
I’m more concerned about Smart continuing to play Donte at the 4.
Donté got some PT but did bupkis with the chance.
I am happy to see Cisco get some positives but Greene and Honeycutt need to be featured – one to decide if he returns next year, the other just to get his feet wet and where he needs to be to become an NBA player. The wins will either come or not.
by betweentheeyes on Feb 22, 2012 12:20 AM PST up reply actions
In this game
Smart thought he had a chance to beat the best team in the NBA at home, so I can’t really fault him. Otherwise agree.
The new starting five has played well for three games.
I have looked at how the Kings starting five have done in the three games since they became Thomas, Thornton, Evans, Thompson and Cousins. Three games is a very small sample, but the statistics are hopeful. The starting five have averaged 34 minutes, 3.4 assists, 6.6 rebounds, and 16.5 points per person per game. If the reserves played at the same level, the Kings would be averaging 26 assists, 49 rebounds and 124 points per game. Evans has shot an ok 42%. Thomas, Thornton and Thompson have shot between 50% and 53%. Cousins has shot a weak-for-a-center 41%. Thomas has shot an excellent 56% from the three-point line, Thornton a good 38%, but Evans a weak 25%. Thompson and Cousins have not taken three point shots. Free throw percentages are 80% for Thomas and Thornton, 100% for Evans, and 60% for Cousins and Thompson. I have not double-checked these figures, but I think they are pretty accurate.
To me this suggests we have a good starting five averaging 34 minutes a game per position. (I have no idea what other starting five averages are.) The question becomes who can provide good play at the other 14 minutes per position per game? Yes Smart needs to keep testing the reserves to see if anyone steps up. In addition, although everyone says Honeycutt and Whiteside are not ready, I would like to see Smart give them five minutes now and then. Whiteside might be a such a good rebounder and blocker that he will deserve minutes. Even if Honeycutt can’t do what a regular NBA player should be able to do, maybe he can do as much as the current reserves are doing and begin to learn.
Of course, two out of the last three games have been against weak teams. I will report back on averages when more games have been played.
Carlji
Error correction
The data cited above as “per game” is actually "per 32 minutes played.’ I estimate 32 minutes is about the average time the average starter plays per game.
Carlji
Decent showing
Excellent effort by our guys, just overmatched today. As has been said, when they play hard they can be in every game.
I did appreciate the kudos given by the Heat announcers – they were willing to say when there was a good play by the Kings and also were quick to point out calls going both ways. Still don’t like the Heat, but liked the fair commentary.
I really liked Thornton's slashing tonight. Here's to hoping he and the rest of the team does that more.
Hayes is finally starting to play like he did before he hurt his shoulder.
I liked the refs tonight, they didn’t call a lot of touchy fouls, and let the teams play for the most part.
Browsing at the box score over at hoopdata, this Kings team has no mid-range game at all (19-29 at rim, 3-13 from 3-9 ft, 3-5 at 10-15 ft, 2-15 at 16-23 ft, and 13-27 for 3PT range)
Cousins is probably tired more than any at the end of this road trip, hopefully he conserved energy for tonight’s game against WAS
As a lot of others on this thread, I thought Donte would get more burn tonight at SF, but played mostly at PF for some odd reason.
Kings didn’t take advantage of their size up front in the 2nd half. I think Cousins and JT were a big reason the team won the first quarter. I think the team got caught up in playing the same speed as the Heat, instead of playing their own game.
"First we get jobs, then we get the khakis, then we get the chicks."
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