Arron Afflalo denies that he declined to enter a game

Sacramento Kings guard Arron Afflalo wants to play more, but denies that he recently declined to enter a game.

This comes after a report that he did not go into a game against the Houston Rockets and was slow to enter a game against the Utah Jazz. After playing 31 minutes in a win over the Portland Trail Blazers Tuesday night, Afflalo was asked about the report.

“Nah, I’ve been active and available for every game,” Afflalo said. “I’m a player that loves to compete and play, but I have to be there for my teammates. Guys are playing well, give them an opportunity as coach figures out the rotations and things of that nature, but it’s a long season and things tend to shake themselves out.”

Afflalo, who signed a reported two-year deal worth $25 million over the summer, averaged 26 minutes per game in November. Kings head coach Dave Joerger, who did not want to discuss the report, cut back Afflalo’s playing time in December – he’s only logged double-digit minutes in four games this month. When pressed further if he has had any issues with his minutes, Afflalo had this to say.

“Not issues, but obviously I want to play more and contribute more, but not really, it is what it is, just have to work through it,” said Afflalo, who is averaging 7.4 points, 2.2 rebounds and 1 assist per game.

Carmichael Dave of KHTK 1140 reported that Afflalo refused to enter the game against the Rockets and stands by his report.