The Sacramento Kings are trending upward in ESPN’s latest NBA Power Rankings, moving from No. 19 to No. 16 following their overtime win against the Dallas Mavericks. However, the ranking still places them behind Western Conference rivals like the Golden State Warriors (15) and the Mavericks (13)—even after Sacramento defeated Dallas on the road.
With fans still skeptical about whether the team truly improved after the trade deadline, Sacramento’s playoff push is far from certain.
DeRozan Delivers, But Can the Kings Sustain It?
DeMar DeRozan’s clutch gene was on full display in Monday’s one-point overtime win against the Mavericks.
“DeRozan had a vintage performance in Monday’s overtime win in Dallas, hitting the tying shot in the fourth quarter and the winning bucket.” – Dave McMenamin, ESPN
While DeRozan’s ability to close games is invaluable, the Kings cannot afford to rely on him every night to bail them out in crunch time. The new-look roster is still adjusting, and chemistry issues remain a concern heading into the final stretch of the season.
Sacramento’s Urgent Need for Cohesion
At 27-26, the Kings are teetering on the edge of the Western Conference playoff picture. The next few games will be crucial as they try to gel before the All-Star break.
Upcoming Games Before the Break:
📅 Kings vs. Pelicans (Back-to-Back Games)
Facing a struggling New Orleans squad, the Kings have a prime opportunity to work out their issues and stack up much-needed wins. If they can build momentum, they might finally solidify their playoff hopes—and light up another beam (or two) in Sacramento.
Final Take: Are the Kings Contenders or Pretenders?
While ESPN’s No. 16 ranking shows improvement, the jury is still out on whether the Kings have truly upgraded their squad after the trade deadline.
Can they find their rhythm in time for a postseason push? Or will chemistry concerns keep them from making real noise in the West?
Sacramento fans won’t have to wait long for answers.
