It was another tough game to swallow for Kings fans, as a Kobe Bryant buzzer beater downed Sacramento 109-108. So close to pulling off the win. So close to getting over the hump vs. the Lakers. When you try to look at the big picture, the outlook is great. Without arguably their three best players, the young Kings can give the Lakers a run for their money. But it’s hard to look at that when they could have given them a loss, too, if they could just avoid some minor mistakes.
1 – One of the biggest disappointments was that the loss washed out an amazing performance by Spencer Hawes. Hawes has been rocky as of late, but he turned in what might have been the best game of his career on Friday. Early on, it was clear that Hawes was feeling it, and he’s a guy who needs that confidence. He was scoring from all over the court – post moves, elbow jumpers, corner threes. Hawes did it all, finishing with 30 points (12-20 FG, 4-5 3ptFG), 11 rebounds and 5 assists. It’d be great for the Kings if he can build on this effort.
2 – Paul Westphal has done a great job this year, but it’s hard to figure out how Sergio Rodriguez continually finds himself on the court in crucial situations. There are times when Rodriguez provides a necessary skill, especially with Tyreke Evans out. His ballhandling is needed when Beno Udrih requires some rest, and he can also spark some energy when the team is sluggish. But lately, he’s dribbling and dribbling and getting nowhere. On top of that, he’s shooting just 34% in the last five games. If Udrih is in, Rodriguez is not needed. Against the Lakers, Rodriguez airballed a three-pointer, missed a "gimme" lay-up and failed to defend Kobe Bryant on the game-winning shot.
3 – The Kings young swingmen continue to provide excitement and reasons for optimism. Donte Greene and Omri Casspi started together again Friday and combined on a number of first quarter plays that put the Kings in front early. Greene has a scorer’s mentality and is a tireless worker defensively. Casspi gains confidence with every game, and it was great to see him come up with a big three pointer in crunch time. He finished with a career-high 23 points.
Quick hits – Ime Udoka has to hit one free throw with the game on the line. That is inexcusable, and it unfortunately ruined an otherwise good game … Evans worked out before the game, but his availability for Saturday’s game is unknown. Kevin Martin, meanwhile, will be evaluated again on Jan.12 … The Kings committed 24 fouls to the Lakers 15 … Jason Thompson was scoreless in 25 minutes before fouling out.
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