JUST IN: Return of the Roar: Kings triumph on their initial away journey of the 2024-25 season.
The Sacramento Kings made a statement in their first away game of the 2024-25 NBA season, as they defeated the Orlando Magic 118-112 in a thrilling contest. The victory, which took place on the Magic’s home turf at the Amway Center, was a testament to the Kings’ resolve, skill, and the remarkable growth they’ve shown since last season. It was a match that not only demonstrated their offensive potency but also hinted at their potential to be a real contender in the Western Conference this year.
Coming off a solid home opener, the Kings faced the challenge of adapting to an away environment—a task that has often proven difficult for young, high-energy teams like Sacramento. However, the Kings didn’t seem to feel the pressure of the road atmosphere. From the opening tip, Sacramento looked focused, aggressive, and well-coached, as they played with the kind of poise you’d expect from a squad aiming to make waves this season.
De’Aaron Fox, who had been excellent in the team’s home opener, continued his stellar form, leading the Kings with 27 points and 8 assists. His speed and ability to break down the defense were on full display as he sliced through Orlando’s defense with ease. Fox also showed his growth as a leader, making key decisions down the stretch and playing a crucial role in the team’s closing run.
Keegan Murray also had a breakout performance, contributing 20 points and a few timely three-pointers that helped keep the Kings’ offense clicking. Murray’s continued development as a second-year player is a major reason for optimism in Sacramento, as he brings the versatility and shooting that complements the team’s more dynamic playmakers. His shooting is particularly valuable in stretching the floor and creating driving lanes for Fox and fellow playmaker Malik Monk.
While Fox and Murray were excellent, it was Domantas Sabonis who truly controlled the flow of the game. The two-time All-Star big man recorded a near triple-double with 16 points, 13 rebounds, and 9 assists. Sabonis’ basketball IQ was evident as he facilitated the offense from the high post, finding teammates in rhythm and ensuring that the Kings’ offense remained fluid.
Sabonis also provided the necessary toughness in the paint, grabbing crucial rebounds and setting screens that freed up shooters. His ability to operate both as a scorer and as a playmaker for others makes him the engine that drives this team. In a matchup against Orlando’s frontcourt, Sabonis made sure that Sacramento’s inside game was never overpowered, providing balance to a high-paced offense.
Though Sacramento’s offense was the headline of the night, their defense in key moments was just as important. The Kings weren’t perfect on the defensive end, but they played smart, team-oriented defense that allowed them to disrupt Orlando’s rhythm when it mattered most.
The Magic’s star player, Paolo Banchero, had a solid game, finishing with 24 points, but Sacramento’s defenders managed to keep him in check during critical stretches of the game. The Kings rotated well and communicated effectively, and in the final minutes, they locked down on Orlando’s shooters, preventing any potential game-winning shots from hitting their mark.
The Kings’ defense might not yet be elite, but their effort was noticeable, and their ability to get stops when it mattered—particularly on the perimeter and in the paint—was a key factor in the win.
The game was tightly contested until the final minutes, with both teams exchanging leads multiple times. However, Sacramento’s experience and Fox’s leadership came through when it mattered. Fox scored crucial baskets in the closing minutes, including a smooth mid-range jumper and a drive to the basket that put the Kings up for good. The Kings’ poise in these clutch moments contrasted sharply with Orlando’s struggle to execute in crunch time, and it was a sign of how far Sacramento has come in terms of maturity.
The Kings’ triumph over the Magic is more than just a win—it’s a signal of their growth as a team. With a renewed commitment to both ends of the floor, Sacramento is showing that their playoff run from the previous season was no fluke. Fox and Sabonis continue to shine as the core of this team, while players like Murray and Malik Monk are contributing in a way that bodes well for the future.
As they continue their road trip with games against more formidable opponents, the Kings will be eager to prove that this is just the beginning of what promises to be a thrilling season. If their performance in Orlando is any indication, the Kings’ roar is back, and they intend to make noise across the league in 2024-25.
