Sacramento, California – In a thrilling matchup on Friday night, Malik Monk led the way for the Sacramento Kings, scoring 31 points while DeMar DeRozan contributed 29 points, helping the Kings claim a 138-130 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies.
De’Aaron Fox also made a significant impact with 23 points, marking the Kings’ third consecutive win.
On the Grizzlies’ side, Jaylen Wells tallied 30 points and Jarren Jackson Jr. added 28 points, showcasing their effort in a competitive game.
At halftime, the Kings held a slim advantage at 78-72 and maintained their lead to end the third quarter at 102-100. The Grizzlies managed to seize a 110-109 edge after Scottie Pippen Jr. sank two free throws with 7:56 left in the final quarter.
However, Sacramento responded effectively, launching a 20-10 run that saw them take control of the game, highlighted by Monk’s 3-pointer that brought the score to 129-120 with just over four minutes remaining.
Zach Edey returned from a two-game hiatus due to a concussion and made his presence felt with nine points and seven rebounds coming off the bench.
Notably, the Grizzlies were without key players, including Ja Morant, who is recovering from a right AC joint strain, and Marcus Smart, who is dealing with a right index finger injury. The Kings also missed Keegan Murray for his second consecutive game due to left ankle soreness.
Moreover, Kings guard Devin Carter, son of Grizzlies assistant coach Anthony Carter, made his professional debut during the first quarter. Carter, who was selected 13th overall in the 2024 draft from Providence, had undergone left shoulder surgery last July to fix a torn labrum.
Key Observations:
The Kings displayed excellent teamwork, delivering 21 assists in the first half while three players recorded four or more assists each.
Despite a challenging start, the Grizzlies rallied after being down by 15 points early in the third quarter, managing to tie the game at 100 with Jackson’s free throws just before the end of the period.
Defining Moments:
Both teams combined for an impressive total of 150 points in the first half. The Kings shot 29 for 59 from the floor, accounting for 52.7%, while the Grizzlies were slightly behind at 26 for 50, translating to an accuracy of 52%.
Statistical Highlights:
In a long-range battle, the teams collectively made 17 three-pointers in the opening quarter. Sacramento hit 10 out of 18 attempts, and Memphis converted on 7 of their 11 shots.
Looking Ahead:
The Kings will face the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco on Sunday. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies will conclude their five-game road trip against the same Warriors on Saturday.
