Kuzma Propels Wizards to 109-102 Victory Over Kings

The Wizards saw significant contributions from Deni Avdija and Corey Kispert, with Avdija adding 17 points and Kispert 15, handing Sacramento its first loss in their last five meetings in Washington. Additionally, Jordan Poole and Richaun Holmes made notable impacts, with Holmes grabbing 16 rebounds against his former team.

The Kings, led by De’Aaron Fox with 25 points and Malik Monk with 20, faced challenges, particularly from the three-point line, where they managed only 11 of 39 shots. Domantas Sabonis continued his streak with a 52nd consecutive double-double despite the team’s overall struggles.

“Tough loss, especially where we are right now in our race for that playoff spot,” Kings coach Mike Brown expressed his disappointment but acknowledged the Wizards’ strong performance. “Kuzma was a handful. We did not have answers for him tonight. We tried to double-team him at times, and he still found a way to hit big shots.”

Despite trailing significantly, the Kings mounted an 18-0 run in the second quarter, challenging the Wizards’ lead. Fox, despite a slow start, underscored the team’s defensive efforts, which he believed provided them with chances to win.

“We only gave up 109 points which is not a terrible defensive game,” Fox said. “We turned them over 20 times. I think defensively we gave ourselves chances to win and for me, obviously, I have to be able to make some of those easier shots.”

The Wizards demonstrated resilience, responding to the Kings’ rally with crucial runs in the second half. Interim coach Brian Keefe praised the team’s determination and defensive efforts that clinched the win.

“One of the things I liked was we had some really good stretches in the game and we had some tough ones but we were really resilient,” Keefe remarked. “They made some big runs and they are a good team. But our guys answered the bell. It was really our defense that closed the game out.”

As both teams look ahead, the Wizards celebrate their victory, marking a significant moment in their season, while the Kings reflect on their performance and focus on their playoff aspirations.