NBA: Isaiahhhh, with a side of Ben

Just a few thoughts on last night’s game against the Atlanta Hawks.

• It’s almost like Isaiah Thomas was mad at me for not giving him even more love in yesterday’s post, as he more or less sparked the Kings to a near comeback win. With the starters having another underwhelming performance, I’m staring at you DeMarcus and Greivis, Isaiah turned in another performance that is going to make coach Malone have to consider inserting him in the starting lineup. He once again was in attack mode, getting into the lane and forcing the action, which resulted in 9 free throws for the mighty mite. He’s now seventh in the league averaging 8 free throws a game. Also chipping in with 5 assists to go along with 26 points, I’d say his 28 minutes were very well played.
• Rookie Ben McLemore has now strung together back to back solid outings. The shooting that we saw while he was at Kansas manifested itself again as he shot 50% from the field, including 3/7 from deep, but what was really encouraging was the 6 rebounds he pulled down. If Ben and Marcus Thornton can show some ability to rebound and defend bigger wings, it could mean some more 3 guard lineups for the Kings that will allow us to see less of John Salmons and Travis Outlaw.
• And then there is Boogie and Greivis, who both turned in another underwhelming performance. For Boogie, it was the same old things that have hindered him in the past, a pouting attitude and foul trouble. I really don’t care if he got hit in the man parts or Al Horford flopped when he pushed him, at this stage he needs to be above reproach and not give referees a reason to notice him. And Greivis has greatly disappointed me with his lack of playmaking. He had 4 assists yesterday to raise his average to a robust 3.8 through four games. I know it’s a very small sample size, but the Kings sorely need him to raise his assist game because their is not another above average passer on the roster.

With that the Kings are off until Friday when they will face the Portland Trailblazer on the road for the first night of a home and home against the Blazers. Here’s hoping that the few days off can cool down DeMarcus, but not Isaiah, and Greivis can find his groove. However, the loss put the Kings one step closer to a top 5 pick, so in the big picture, it’s not the end of the world.