This will undoubtedly remain as one of the thrillers of this regular season. Trailing by 17 points eight minutes from the end, the Kings achieved the feat of coming back against the Heat before winning Monday after two overtimes (123-118). In a Golden 1 Center in turmoil, Sacramento signs its fifth consecutive victory and confirms its change, at least in the minds, under the orders of Doug Christie.
The Kings will be able to say a big thank you to DeMar DeRozan. Limited to ten points after three quarters, “Deebo” often came out of his box when finishing a close match.
It took no less to initiate the comeback of his team in the fourth quarter, while Miami thought they had the difference in the second period. Winner of the third quarter 31-18 and in the lead with a comfortable lead (78-95) thanks to Tyler Herro or Jaime Jaquez Jr. in Swiss army knife mode, the Heat then lost the thread defensively. DeMar DeRozan started the hostilities with his 11 points in the fourth quarter.
The Kings’ summer recruit infused his decisive character, well supported by Keon Ellis, X factor in the absence of De’Aaron Fox, or by Kegan Murray, author of two big shots in the last three minutes of regulation time. Then Domantas Sabonis, author of an XXL triple-double, sent the game into overtime with two free throws (102-102). But the Heat did not disunite, regaining a two possession lead, before having the opportunity to lead by three points with three seconds remaining.
But Jaquez missed both free throws, leading the way for Sacramento. Keon Ellis only took half advantage by leaving a throw on the way. 112 everywhere, and second overtime for the Kings in back-to-back after their defeat against Golden State.
Even at 35, DeMar DeRozan still has good health. “DMDR” was as clutch as possible, scoring Sacramento’s last nine points with shots he has the secret to, despite the defense in place in front of him. This time, the Heat had no answer, scoring only one point in the last 157 seconds of the game.
WHAT TO REMEMBER
– DeMar DeRozan still solid in the clutch. The absence of De’Aaron Fox allowed DeMar DeRozan to have the keys to the truck alone at the end of the match. It was for these types of situations that the Kings went for him, and the winger justified why with his 30 points, including 20 in the fourth quarter and overtime. The second, despite 47 minutes in the legs, is a model of offensive control and composure.
– The Kings have changed a lot. We might be able to talk about a Doug Christie effect. This fifth consecutive success is already good accounting proof of the impact that the former player has on his group. The latter above all showed mental resources that we did not suspect in the first third of the season. The attitudes spoke volumes about the pleasure and confidence found in Sacramento. At the Heat, on the other hand, we can look gloomy with a third loss in a row right in the heart of the Jimmy Butler psychodrama.
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How to read the stats? Min = Minutes; Shots = Successful shots / Attempted shots; 3pts = 3-points / 3-points attempted; LF = free throws made / free throws attempted; O = offensive rebound; D=defensive rebound; T = Total rebounds; Pd = assists; Fte: Personal fouls; Int = Intercepts; Bp = Lost balls; Ct: Against; +/- = Point differential when the player is on the field; Pts = Points; Eval: player evaluation calculated from positive actions – negative actions.
