Kings credit for feeling ‘fresher’ after Christie’s workouts originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area
THE The kings seem to have reached a milestone on their 2024-25 NBA season as they look to build on an impressive six-game winning streak.
While the firing of former coach Mike Brown came as a shock to the entire basketball world, Kings players bought into the message from interim head coach Doug Christie, who is 6-1 since taking the helm.
One notable difference some players attribute to this turnaround is less practice, which they say has helped them stay refreshed and ready for game days.
“Talking to some of the guys who are playing heavier minutes, they definitely feel fresher to start games,” Kings guard Kevin Huerter said after the Kings’ 114-97 win over the defending NBA champions , the Boston Celtics, Friday night at TD Garden (h/t Chris Biderman of the Sacramento Bee). “I think even mentally, just during the season, we’re already in January, and at this point in the season you play a lot of games.
“As much as it’s physical work, it’s also mental work. Being halfway there and needing every win, in a way we put the brakes on a little bit, while still trusting ourselves to do our job. It was well received.”
Monk Malikwho emerged into the starting lineup this season and is averaging 22.3 points on 42.4 percent shooting, with 4.0 rebounds, 7.3 assists and 1.4 steals since the coaching change of Sacramento, shared a similar message about training.
“We don’t do anything. Save your legs,” Monk said. “Go ahead and finish it in an hour, instead of staying up for two hours and doing a lot.”
It’s no secret that Brown enjoyed training much more (and longer) than the players.
The old-school military-style coach was fired in his third season with the team after a disappointing 13-18 start to the season.
“Of course,” Kings star center Domantas Sabonis said, “if you can rest, you’ll be fresher for the games.”
It seems easy for players to join and identify with Christiea former player turned coach.
Having that player perspective has helped Christie in several areas.
“I have to understand that even when I was with the Kings we played a similar style, like super fast, we get there,” Christie said. “So when you play in that style, as a coach I have to know how to approach training and make sure they get what they need.
“So, to be honest with you, it kind of varies. I just try to observe, keep my ear to the street and try to get a good sense of who they are and what they need more than anything, and get out of the way.
The Kings will face the Chicago Bulls on Monday and the Milwaukee Bucks on Tuesday night to cap off their short three-game road trip before returning to Golden 1 Center for a trio of home games.
“I think collectively everything we’ve been through in December so far has been a 360,” Kings forward Keegan Murray said.
