NBA Western Power Rankings Week 8: Clippers hang onto 4th
By Tom West
Dec 20, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Sacramento Kings forward Omri Casspi (left) and forward DeMarcus Cousins (center) and Sacramento Kings guard Rajon Rondo (right) celebrate on the bench against the Toronto Raptors at the Air Canada Centre. Sacramento defeated Toronto 104-94. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
10th: Sacramento Kings (17 points)
By Tom West
Record: 12-17
Last 10 games: 5-5
Rajon Rondo is dropping dimes non-stop, DeMarcus Cousins continues to score, and the Kings have actually gone .500 in their last 10 games. Considering their terrible start and off-court issues surrounding Cousins and new head coach George Karl, it’s somewhat surprising they’re starting to tally some wins. Yet, with Rondo playing so well offensively and six players averaging double-digit scoring, the Kings’ offense has helped them get by recently.
Over their last five games they have still been inconsistent, but at least have a few impressive results under their belt. They’ve taken down the Rockets 97-107, the Toronto Raptors 104-94 and the Indiana Pacers 108-106. Each of those wins say a lot what the Kings can be capable of, as there’s no doubt that they at least have a few genuinely good players.
The main problems are bench play and their 25th ranking in defensive efficiency. More than anything else, it’s their defense that often leads to their inconsistent results and sub .500 record.
Next: Phoenix Suns