Malik Monk led the way with 27 points as the Sacramento Kings dominated the Memphis Grizzlies 123-92 on Sunday’s NBA action. Domantas Sabonis also played a pivotal role, achieving his sixth triple-double of the season with 13 points, a massive 21 rebounds, and 12 assists. De’Aaron Fox contributed 24 points in the Kings’ second consecutive victory.
Sabonis’ rebounding performance was a critical factor in the Kings’ 59-34 advantage on the boards, which he attributed to a collective team effort and effective shot contesting by Sacramento.
“It was a team effort,” Sabonis said of his rebounding, which contributed to a 59-34 Kings advantage on the boards. “I feel we did a good job of contesting their shots. … Today was my night.”
The Kings showcased their shooting prowess, hitting 50% from the field and 52% from three-point range. Monk’s impressive shooting included a 10 of 13 performance from the field and missing only one out of five three-point attempts.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies, Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento Kings Updates
Memphis, led by Jaren Jackson with 18 points and supported by Desmond Bane, Ja Morant, and Luke Kennard with 17 points each, struggled as they lost their third straight game. The Kings’ defense effectively limited the Grizzlies’ scoring opportunities, particularly in the paint, where Memphis managed only 32 points. Overall, the Grizzlies shot just 37% from the field and 12 for 40 from beyond the arc.
Kings coach Mike Brown praised the defensive effort, highlighting it as possibly the best since his tenure with the team. He noted the successful rebounding and transition defense as key components of the win.
“I tell you what, it’s probably the best defensive performance that we’ve had since I’ve been here, from start to finish,” Brown said. “It was really, really fun to watch.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies, Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento Kings Updates
Memphis, nearly at full strength except for Steven Adams and Brandon Clarke, couldn’t find their defensive rhythm. Returning player Luke Kennard, who missed 20 games, struggled along with Bane and Morant, as the Kings disrupted their offensive flow.
Memphis coach Taylor Jenkins acknowledged the Kings’ effective game plan and the difficulty in winning with a low shooting percentage. He pointed out missed opportunities both in the paint and from three-point range.
“They had a good game plan. They double-teamed our guys,” Jenkins said. “… It’s hard to win when you shoot (37%). We missed tons of shots in the paint. Missed open 3s. Just one of those nights.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies, Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento Kings Updates
Sacramento surged ahead in the second half, especially in the third quarter, where they outscored Memphis 31-21, extending their lead significantly. The Grizzlies are currently working on regaining their chemistry with players returning from absences. Bane expressed confidence in the team’s ability to bounce back once everyone fully adjusts.
Looking ahead, the Kings will start a four-game homestand against the Charlotte Hornets on Tuesday, while the Grizzlies continue their homestand by hosting the San Antonio Spurs.
