The Sacramento Kings put an end to their playoff drought last season, and the future looks bright for Mike Brown’s team.
Brown’s coaching and player development were key to their success, and he’s just getting started.
The same can be said of former first-round pick Keegan Murray, who had his ups and downs during his rookie season, but he’s now more than ready to take a major leap in his second year in the league.
That was evident after watching him dominate in the Summer League vs. the Miami Heat, up to the point where some fans even urged the team to shut him down already.
Shut him down. He does not need to be in summer league.
— Chris Palmer (@ChrisPalmerNBA) July 6, 2023
This should be illegal
— ²³𝙻𝚎𝙱𝚛𝚘𝚗𝚌𝚑𝚒𝚝𝚒𝚜🏀☄️🌎💞 (@BronGotGame) July 6, 2023
A playoff starter is playing in the summer league is crazy
— BIG MEL ♚ (@BIGMEL____) July 6, 2023
15 FT? Brother getting the Embiid treatment in the summer league
— Aaron Milk (@dairyasf) July 6, 2023
Varsity playing freshmen.
— Dorian (@DorianGroup82) July 6, 2023
Murray scored 41 on 20 shots with six three-pointers, also grabbing five boards, blocking three shots, and going 13/15 from the free-throw line.
Growing pains are always expected from rookies, but even despite some off performances, Murray was a steady contributor for the most part.
The Iowa product showcases the kind of skill set that makes him perfect for today’s game, as he’s big enough to play both forward spots and even some small-ball center, and he can also stretch the floor with his shot-making skills.
Murray also boasts plenty of upside on the defensive end of the floor, and he’s expected to have an expanded role next to Domantas Sabonis and De’Aaron Fox next season.
Of course, one cannot compare Summer League competition with his actual NBA opponents, but there’s absolutely no reason to believe he can’t be this kind of player if he continues his development.
NEXT: The Kings Are Signing A Former EuroLeague MVP
