SALT LAKE CITY – The Sacramento Kings continued their strong play on Wednesday night, defeating the Utah Jazz 118-101 at the Delta Center to kick off their four-game road trip. This victory improved the Kings' record to 30-28, showcasing their offensive efficiency by shooting 52.9% from the field, 41.7% from three-point range, and 91.7% from the free-throw line.
Keegan Murray led the offensive charge for Sacramento, scoring a season-high 26 points, including five three-pointers. Zach LaVine contributed with 22 points, hitting four triples of his own, as the Kings made 15 of 36 from beyond the arc. The Kings also dominated the paint, scoring 50 points inside and out-rebounding the Jazz 47-34.
"It was great to start the road trip with a win," Murray said post-game. "We really focused on our spacing and shooting, and it paid off tonight."
The first half saw both teams struggle with turnovers, and the Kings initially found themselves tied at 22-22 after the first quarter. Both LaVine and DeMontis Sabonis had two turnovers each to start the game. Despite this, the Kings regained control, building momentum as the second quarter progressed. LaVine found his rhythm, scoring 13 points by halftime to help Sacramento lead 55-46.
While the Kings' stars shone, Walker Kessler put on quite the performance for the Jazz, scoring 25 points and securing 14 rebounds. His significant contribution made him only the third center in NBA history to record at least 25 points, 14 rebounds, and five assists without missing a field goal attempt, joining legends Wilt Chamberlain and Nikola Jokic.
"Kessler had one of the best games of his young career, and it’s exciting to see his growth," said Jazz coach Will Hardy. "He's shown flashes of brilliance, and we need him to keep progressing as we move forward."
KJ Martin also impressed for Utah, scoring 16 points and demonstrating versatile play with his ability to make quick cuts and capitalize on fast breaks.
Unfortunately for the Jazz, who fell to 14-44 on the season, injuries to key players like Lauri Markkanen, John Collins, and Collin Sexton hampered their competitiveness. Jordan Clarkson, struggling to regain his shooting form, finished with only two points on 1-of-14 shooting, finally breaking his scoring drought with a late layup.
The second half was defined by the Kings' precision and aggressive play. After Utah cut the Kings' lead to just one point at 60-59, Sacramento responded with a 14-3 run, thanks to DeMar DeRozan's jumper and continued scoring from Murray and LaVine.
Interim head coach Doug Christie emphasized the importance of maintaining opportunities to score against the Jazz's undermanned squad. "Although we had some rocky openings with turnovers, we managed to stay focused and pulled away when it mattered," Christie said.
The Kings' success came from their ability to connect on outside shots, leaving the Jazz's defense scrambling. Their offensive flow improved significantly, leading to open shots and easy baskets. Murray's performance showed his versatility, from powerful dunks to long-range jumpers, as he topped 20 points for the first time since November.
The night ended on a high note for the Kings as they enjoyed their victory before embarking on their next matchup against the Houston Rockets. "We need to build on this momentum," LaVine stated. "Every game counts as we push for the Play-In Tournament and beyond."
Next up, the jazz will continue their nine-home game stretch, with the Minnesota Timberwolves visiting the Delta Center this Friday night at 7:30 PM MST. The Kings, with their newfound synergy, will face Houston on Saturday, determined to extend their winning streak.