The Sacramento Kings claimed their first victory Wednesday night with a 124-121 win over the Portland Trail Blazers.
Sacramento saw several key players flaming hot on the offensive end of the spectrum, with Harrison Barnes shooting a career high 8-10 from beyond the arc going for 36 points while De’Aaron Fox exploded in his season debut with 27 points.
Holmes dominated the glass, collecting his first double-double of the season with 21 points and 11 rebounds.
Luke Walton rolled out a starting five featuring De’Aaron Fox, Tyrese Haliburton, Harrison Barnes, Moe Harkless and Richaun Holmes. Though Sacramento tested a few lineups during the preseason, the addition of Buddy Hield off the bench seemed to be most resounding prediction heading into the contest.
Last season’s two worst ranked defenses (No. 29 POR and No. 30 SAC) saw a turning tide, with Sacramento producing 43 rebounds, 6 steals and 4 blocks. The Kings were able to produce 11 points off turnovers in the first half, sending the game into halftime up 13 points at 62-49.
Despite early offensive woes from beyond the arc, Portland sharpshooter CJ McCollum poured in 34 points for the Blazers. Damian Lillard did not make a three in the contest – contributing an astoundingly quiet 20 points and 11 assists.
Another highlight on the night came for Buddy Hield – tying a franchise high in three-pointers made with the great Peja Stojakovic at 1,070 at the start of the fourth frame. Hield shot 4-7 from beyond the arc on the night.
The Kings will look to improve to 2-0 on the season this Friday as they host the Utah Jazz in their home opener.
