By Brian Ishisaka, Staff writer
What a start to the season for the Sacramento Kings! The Kings originally started the 2014-2015 season with a 5-2 record, something that hasn’t been done since the 2001-2002 season. However, with a recent losses to teams like the Oklahoma City Thunder, Memphis Grizzlies, and New Orleans Pelicans, their record now stands at 11-10, which is still very good compared to some of the top teams in the NBA.
So what is the difference from this season’s start compared to previous years? Some may say that it is rookie Nik Stauskas’ play, but he hasn’t quite made his mark yet. The main difference is the team’s DEFENSE AND TEAM CHEMISTRY.
Two of the King’s stars, Demarcus Cousins and Rudy Gay, seem to be playing the game with ease after winning a gold medal with Team USA this past summer. Demarcus is proving to the league why he is in the talks of being the best big man in the league. Additionally, Ben McLemore, who is now in his sophomore season, is shining as a player in the starting five. Ben has tremendously improved his defense and his shot will come back in due time. Not only are Ben, Rudy, and Demarcus the talk of the town right now, but the King’s new point guard, Darren Collison is the catalyst to the King’s success. Collison was acquired in free agency and he formerly played for the Los Angeles Clippers. The former Clipper made key plays during their playoff run last year and knows the ins and outs of the game, since he was able to learn from one of the top guards in the NBA, that in Chris Paul. Not to mention, Bleacher Report, ranked Collison number four on the top fourteen most underrated players on the NBA. His speed, ball handling, and court vision, complements this team perfectly.
A big factor in the Kings early success is the new ownership too. The owners have
brought a new pride to the city of Sacramento. Their enthusiasm and charisma are bringing a spirit of greatness to this team. Also, by changing the jerseys and the court layout in the arena, this ball club is looking better than ever.
All these changes have definitely not gone to waste as well. Since their outstanding start to the season, the Kings have obtained more national televised games and have been recognized more by sports analysts too. The Sacramento Kings are definitely a team to keep an eye on this season.