Sacramento Kings vs. New York Knicks preview and prediction for 2024 Summer League | July 17
The New York Knicks will face the Sacramento Kings at the Pavilion in Las Vegas on Wednesday.
After some inconsistent play at the California Classic, the Kings have shown some positive signs in Nevada and have a 1-1 record in the tournament. The team struggled defensively in their first game against the Memphis Grizzlies but managed to put up 83 points. That was followed by a big win against a loaded Utah Jazz team that is littered with talented prospects.
The Knicks are yet to get their first win of the Summer League and have started with consecutive losses. New York battled bravely against the Charlotte Hornets before succumbing to a narrow 94-90 loss. Their second loss to the Brooklyn Nets was concerning, as the Knicks blew a 21-point lead late in the game.
Sacramento Kings vs. New York Knicks preview
The Sacramento Kings enter the game on a high after defeating a talented Utah Jazz that had three draft picks in the top 32 selections. Led by an energetic offense, the 82-70 statement win offered plenty of positives for a Sacramento team that has reached the NBA playoffs just once in 18 seasons.
Second-year guard Colby Jones will be looking to add to his impressive performance in Wednesday's game. Although he struggled initially against the Grizzlies, the former Xavier star reminded fans why the organization drafted him with a stellar outing against the Jazz. He finished with 25 points, six rebounds and three steals.
The New York Knicks have had a sluggish start and will be looking to secure a win to boost momentum for their young prospects.
So far, Duane Washington has been one of the few bright spots for the organization. The guard, who previously had stints with the Indiana Pacers and Phoenix Suns, will be looking to earn some minutes in the regular season after scoring 26 points against the Hornets and following that up with 21 against the Nets.
It is still early days, but the Knicks will be hoping to see more from their rookie class. Tyler Kolek, the 34th overall pick, has been energetic, but Frenchman Pacome Dadiet is yet to find his footing.
Sacramento Kings vs. New York Knicks prediction
The Sacramento Kings defense locked down the Jazz on Monday, holding them to just 70 points. If they can maintain that intensity, it will be a long night for the New York Knicks.
Offensively, The Kings have several players who can put up points, The Knicks defense, which collapsed against the Nets, will have to be better if they hope to have any chance of a victory.
While New York will be desperate to get a win at the Summer League, Sacramento should edge this contest.