SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — Zach LaVine scored a season-high 42 points, leading the Sacramento Kings to a resounding 130-88 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Monday night. LaVine's impressive performance came after he was acquired from the Chicago Bulls in a multi-team trade near the deadline and demonstrated his growing importance to the Kings.
LaVine shone as he made eight 3-pointers and shot 16 of 19 overall, hitting four 3-pointers during the first half alone as the Kings built a commanding 20-point lead. This marked the Kings' first home win against the Hornets since 2021, illustrating their improved form as they aim to secure their place in the Western Conference play-in tournament.
The Kings' offensive display featured solid contributions from DeMar DeRozan, who added 18 points and seven rebounds. Malik Monk also played well, chipping in 13 points, with Keegan Murray and Domantas Sabonis adding 10 and seven points, respectively. Sabonis also contributed 10 rebounds and seven assists, showcasing his all-around game.
On the other side, Miles Bridges led the Hornets' scoring with 23 points. Still, the team appeared uninspired, coming off a devastating 53-point loss to the Portland Trail Blazers just two nights earlier. LaMelo Ball and Nick Smith Jr. managed to add 13 points each, but neither player could spark the team as they fell to their 12th defeat in their last 14 games.
The Hornets began the game with some early momentum, shocking the Kings with an 8-2 run. Unfortunately for Charlotte, the Kings quickly responded, tearing through the defense with a 23-10 run over the next six minutes and gaining control of the game.
The result raised questions about the Hornets' ability to recover from recent blows, especially after suffering two consecutive losses by a combined total of 95 points. Head coach James Borrego will need to find ways to refocus his squad as they prepare for their next challenge.
Following this game, the Kings aim to build upon their strong performance as they head to Utah for another challenge, whereas the Hornets will continue their road trip with a game against the Golden State Warriors.