Without belaboring the obvious, specifically, the Kings' futility at the foul line for a second consecutive game, at least the problems earlier tonight were limited to three players: Only three Kings even made it to the foul line, which is something I haven't seen since I can't remember when. Andres Nocioni, who missed the crucial free throw and then committed a lane violation with one second remaining, was 2-for-6. Jason Thompson was 2-for-5. Rookie Tyreke Evans was 5-for-8.
And, not that the Kings need any reminders, but I can hear Pat Riley, Gregg Popovich, Larry Brown, Phil Jackson, etc., venting about how close games are won with free throws and rebounds. Spencer Hawes' inability to box out didn't help, either, nor did Thompson's early departure with six fouls - in 30 minutes. Love JT's passion and elbow jumper, but at some point, he has to start displaying some poise and common sense. Grabbing an opponent's jersey? Overtly hooking David West - I think it was West - with his left hand, and then behaving like the aggrieved party when he gets caught? All in the fourth quarter? Seriously. Those were easy, obvious calls, yet Thompson persisted with his chronic, season-long tantrum that has to wear on the referees. Continue with the dramatic displays of distemper, and they'll remain irritated and continue to make his life miserable. And this has nothing to do with Tim Donaghy, "60 Minutes," or Game 6 of Kings-Lakers, by the way, and everything to do with human nature. I suspect Paul Westphal has already had this chat with his second-year forward, probably on that late-night flight to San Antonio ...
Maybe the best, so far
Evans has had more explosive scoring nights, but this might have been his most impressive and complete game. Defense. Rebounding. Scoring. Scoring in the deciding fourth period. Most importantly, his quicker decision-making. I loved his feel for when to push the pace, when to attack the basket in the half-court, and then moving without the ball, understanding that he would get the ball back. This is not a selfish team. And what's scary, at age 20, his combination of size, strength and defensive instincts clearly distinguish hiim from many of his talented young peers - among them the explosive Brandon Jennings. Westphal also raves about his study habits and keen intellect.
Geoff Petrie (and Jerry Reynolds, who loved the kid before anyone else) made what is looking to be a brilliant pick at No.4. If management can avoid overhyping (and ruining) the youngster in their desire to sell tickets and market a future star, the Rookie of the Year race will be the least of his accomplishments.
Oh, and about point guards ...
If Evans, Beno Udrih and Sergio Rodriguez continue to complement each other effectively in the backcourt, the Kings will be just fine in the playmaking department for the near future. But who knew? Beno, steady, unflappable, a consistent mid-range shooter, improved deep shooter, and a far different and superior player than a year ago? Sergio, with his quickness, court vision and passing skills, providing a tempo change and creativity? Tyreke ... well, he's a stud, no question, and a devastating scorer whom I continue to maintain is at his best when not asked to do too much with the ball.
With tthe impending return of Kevin Martin - and eventual return of Francisco Garcia - Petrie has plenty of wing players to dangle when the trade deadline nears. Westphal nailed it in preseason: For the Kings to make the move beyond being intriguing, entertaining, interesting and competitive, to a dangerous young squad, Petrie has to address the feeble frontcourt, and the fact his bigs continue to play small. Was Spencer really among the league's leading shotblockers this time last year? What happened to JT's run of double-doubles? If Petrie can acquire an athletic, muscular center/power forward type who provides a physical defensive presence and consistent rebounding, the Kings accelerate the learning curve.
True, they've lost consecutive tough games. But there is something there. Finally, there is something there ...
