Warriors’ Playoff Hopes Dashed in Play-In Defeat
The NBA’s play-in tournament ignited with a high-stakes showdown as the 10th-seeded Golden State Warriors faced off against the 9th-seeded Sacramento Kings. Klay Thompson struggled immensely, failing to score a single point as the Warriors fell 94-118, bringing a disappointing end to their season.
Kings Seek Redemption Against Warriors
Last year’s playoffs saw the Warriors advance past the Kings in a thrilling seven-game series, highlighted by Stephen Curry’s 50-point explosion in Game 7. The two teams clashed earlier in the play-in stage this season, with each team winning two of the four regular-season matchups. Seeking revenge, the Kings surged ahead in the first quarter behind Keegan Murray’s hot shooting to take a 31-22 lead.
Kings’ Defensive Prowess Limits Warriors
The Kings deployed a stout defense, effectively containing the Warriors’ star duo. With only Jonathan Kuminga providing significant scoring support with 12 points in the first half, the Warriors struggled to keep pace. Despite Kuminga’s efforts, the Warriors trailed by just four points at halftime, with Curry and Thompson combining for a mere five points.
Kings Pull Away in the Second Half
The Kings showcased their offensive firepower in the second half, with De’Aaron Fox erupting for 14 points in a single quarter. Keon Ellis made key contributions on both ends of the floor, helping the Kings outscore the Warriors 37-26 in the third quarter to extend their lead. Although Curry found his rhythm with 11 points in the quarter, the Warriors couldn’t narrow the gap.
Thompson’s Struggles Continue in the Fourth Quarter
The Warriors’ woes persisted in the final quarter as Thompson remained scoreless, playing 32 minutes without a single point. Despite Curry’s team-high 22 points and contributions from Draymond Green, Andrew Wiggins, and Moses Moody off the bench, the Warriors couldn’t overcome the Kings’ dominance.
Kings’ Balanced Attack Seals Victory
The Kings’ balanced scoring attack propelled them to victory, with Keegan Murray leading the charge with 32 points on efficient shooting. Fox added 24 points, while Domantas Sabonis recorded a double-double with 16 points and 12 rebounds. Ellis contributed 15 points along with impressive defensive stats, sealing the Kings’ win.
Warriors Bow Out as Kings Advance
With their perimeter shooting lacking and unable to establish dominance in the paint, the Warriors were left with no choice but to accept defeat. Meanwhile, the Kings advanced to face the New Orleans Pelicans in a bid for the 8th seed in the Western Conference.(Suertegaming)