The Sacramento Kings claimed victory over the Utah Jazz with a 118-101 win on Wednesday night at the Delta Center, bolstered by standout performances from Keegan Murray and Zach Levine.
Murray lit up the scoreboard with a season-high 26 points, marking his fourth game this season with 20 points or more. He showcased his ability to score from various spots on the court, converting five 3-pointers and executing impressive drives to the hoop, helping the Kings start their four-game road trip on a successful note.
Joining Murray, Zach Levine contributed significantly with 22 points, supporting the Kings as they looked to build momentum following their dominating 130-88 victory against the Charlotte Hornets just two nights earlier. This win allowed Sacramento (30-28) to maintain its position just outside the playoffs, trailing the Dallas Mavericks by half a game for the ninth seed.
Despite the defeat, Walker Kessler had his own standout performance for the Jazz (14-43), recording 25 points and 14 rebounds. His efforts, though significant, weren't enough to overcome Sacramento's offensive prowess, especially considering the limitations faced by the Jazz—who were missing key players including Lauri Markkanen, John Collins, and Collin Sexton due to injuries.
"Games like this, you’ve got to win, so today was a big game for us," said Keegan Murray after the game, emphasizing the importance of the victory as the Kings eye the playoff picture. Interim coach Doug Christie echoed this sentiment, noting, "There are certain aspects of our game we’re improving in," pointing out the need for continuous improvement going forward.
Although the Kings had to shake off some early-game struggles, they quickly gained control. They trailed early but soon took the lead and built on it, highlighted by their ability to shoot effectively. Sacramento posted impressive shooting percentages, hitting 52.9% from the field and 41.7% from beyond the arc, compared to Utah's 45.2% overall shooting and 36.4% from three-point range.
On the boards, the Kings dominated, out-rebounding the Jazz 47-34 and controlling points in the paint with a 50-40 advantage. This physicality was especially notable against a Jazz team missing its leading scorers. The Kings took advantage of the interior gaps and made adjustments as the game progressed, particularly during the second half.
The game featured notable moments, including DeMar DeRozan’s jumper which capped off a 14-3 run, extending the Kings' lead to 91-72 and breaking the contest open. The Kings were able to consistently respond after the Jazz would cut the score down, and at one point led by as many as 22 points.
Jordan Clarkson managed to score just two points, avoiding the embarrassment of going scoreless for the first time since joining the Jazz, but it was far from the output Utah needed under the circumstances. Clarkson, who had been shooting poorly throughout the game, ended with just one basket on 14 shot attempts.
With this victory, the Kings remain pivotal players within the Western Conference playoff race. The upcoming schedule will see them facing tough opponents, and they know they must continue to push their limits. Murray remarked on the challenge, saying, "If we want to stay afloat in the Western Conference … we have to beat good teams."
Looking forward, the Kings are set to face the Houston Rockets next, needing to replicate the energy and efficiency they displayed against the Jazz. The confidence they're building could be key as they navigate through tougher matchups, with the stakes getting higher as the season approaches its final stretch.
Overall, the Kings showcased determination and skill against the Jazz, and with positive developments on both offense and defense, they seem poised for continued success as they push forward through the remainder of the season.