Sabonis: Kings Have a ‘Really Good Group of Guys'

Domantas Sabonis is looking forward to the Sacramento Kings' season opener against the Los Angeles Clippers and going to war with his teammates.

Sabonis believes Sacramento has the talent, shooting and athleticism to compete. The biggest hurdle is bringing it all together and executing the way coach Doug Christie wants.

Christie has a lot on his plate to manage this season. He's coaching two former All-Stars, Zach LaVine and Sabonis, and a Rookie of the Year candidate, Darius Acuff Jr.

Relying on his veteran duo is the best and most effective way to win games. Prioritizing the rookie's development is also crucial, forcing the coach to balance their responsibilities.

LaVine and Sabonis are a proven, experienced duo. They led the Kings in scoring and rebounding in the first six games, but went 2-4.

Their combined efforts weren't enough to overcome vital late-game mistakes. Sacramento fouled often in the last five minutes and gave up back-breaking 3-pointers.

Acuff adds another dynamic to the offense as a ball-dominant guard. He and Sabonis' pick-and-roll chemistry looked promising in the Kings' preseason opener against the Los Angeles Lakers.

The three-time All-Star is a physical screener, always initiating contact with the chasing defender. Acuff created sizeable separation driving downhill, getting to his spots with ease for mid-range jump shots or layups.

He also found his big man on the roll, setting Sabonis up in the short roll to create another advantage.

LaVine is a versatile third option who can score with and without the ball. The two-time All-Star led the Kings in 3-point shooting, making 39% of six attempts.

Sacramento's talented trio could be the lynchpin of the efficient late-game offense the team lacked last season, as their games complement each other well.

Health is the most significant factor in the Kings' talent gelling over the 82-game season.

LaVine and Sabonis underwent season-ending surgery last February. The team sorely missed their offensive production, finishing tied with the Brooklyn Nets for last in 3-point percentage and were the third-worst offense.

Their offensive woes continued this preseason, but Christie rested Sabonis in three of the five games. Sacramento gave the back-end rotation, training camp and two-way players more opportunities than his stars.

Christie's starters didn't get the reps they needed in preseason. It leaves Wednesday's season opener as the first game they play more than 30 minutes together.

Sabonis said he's excited for the real games to start, for Christie to establish a rotation and for everyone to play together.