Sacramento Kings Official Media Release!

[NOLa.]

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Training camp is officially underway throughout the league and excitement is in the air for the Sim League fans as the preseason is fast approaching. The newly formed league went through its first offseason, and while many correctly predicted a snooze-fest in free agency due to the lack of talent coming off their contracts, the offseason was anything but dull thanks in part to trades and the draft. Many teams made volume moves to build their team to their liking and others traded players for current and future draft picks to acquire younger talent, but one team in particular had a fairly quiet offseason since their outing in the playoffs.


And the Kings don’t mind one bit.


“I like that it’s been a quiet offseason after the loss in the playoffs” commented star power forward and league leading scorer Karl Malone. “I was able to take a good bit of time off and head back down home and get basketball off my mind.”


And who could blame him? After a classic matchup between the Sacramento Kings and Dallas Mavericks that went to Game 7 in Sacramento, the Mavericks pulled an upset in the late 4th quarter after a controversial call by the head referee that some in the media circus have labeled “a judgment call.” But the team does not blame one call that could have gone either way. There were problems with the defense from the start of the series and the team played out of character on the offensive end for the first few games. When the defense finally clicked it was too late, Dallas players completely locked in on Karl Malone and no one else was able to create for themselves or others. As the saying goes, what makes you laugh also makes you cry.

So how did the Kings respond this offseason? They kept quiet and watched as the league scrambled to make trades, and depending on whom you speak to this was either an unimpressive response to falling short of expectations or merely an act of patience and trust.

“Some call us the most boring team in the league because of our defense-first/score-inside approach to the game and conservatism on the managerial end of trade talks,” says general manager John Forman “but this team was built to do two things since its creation: win now and sustain a winning team for the future. The Sacramento fans are the most loyal fans in the league and understand there is no pressure on us to make major moves to improve. Rather, we scout our players in advanced and look to groom them into the basketball player we all know they can be.”


Youth and defense was the name of the game in the creation draft for the Sacramento Kings front office after careful consideration of available talent each round and reviewing opponents team builds. Overshadowed by the monster season Karl Malone had, the Kings were actually younger and more inexperienced than some think. Currently only one player, center Randy Breuer, is 30 years old or older. Apart from Malone, each of the other four starters were in their 3rd year or less. Center Andrew Lang and shooting guard Kevin Edwards were in their third season, point guard Pooh Richardson was in his sophomore season, and forward Lionell Simmons was in his rookie season. Each was carefully selected to play a significant role and function on the team.

And such is the case with the only new acquisition of the offseason guard Randy Brown picked 27th in the first round of the 1990 Sim League Draft. Kings coaches have already shown they are willing to play younger, inexperienced players that fit the team’s philosophy and game plan rather than veteran role players. Brown is expected to enter the preseason as the backup to both the PG and SG positions to play a much needed role as a versatile defender off the bench on the perimeter with decent handles, and Brown has accepted the challenge.


“Coach told me since the draft that while he was sincerely excited to welcome me to the team that I needed to be ready come day one. He expects me to step in and fill a role on a winning team and that’s why I as drafted. I feel comfortable with the situation because the Kings organization has been very helpful and stayed in close contact with me when I graduated.”


And the rookie is making impressive strides in a short amount of time in training camp under the guidance of former standout rookie Lionell Simmons. Simmons was thrust into a much more demanding situation than Brown is expected to handle and Simmons met and exceeded expectations as a full time starter for all 82 games,  scoring 15 points and securing 7 rebounds a game and was used as a key player on the offensive end.

Simmons has had a long offseason since being bounced in the playoffs and has made improvements to his daily routine when practicing in the gym. Kings training staff have worked overtime to keep up with the demands and time Simmons puts into his work and he hopes his hard work pays off.

"I was really disappointed in my effort and production in the series against the Mavericks. My defense was not up to par at all throughout the series and my shooting was inconsistent at best and I feel it had a bearing on the results. I need to become a more balanced player with or without the ball in my hands and I need to bring intensity on the defensive end of the floor. My rookie season was a learning experience and while I was happy the league noticed my efforts with two West Rookie of the Month considerations I knew I was capable of more. I need to take that next step and that starts with me maturing and becoming a leader."

Since his short stay in Sacramento so far, Brown has always had Simmons to talk to or meet up with outside of the practice facility. Simmons was the first on the team to welcome Brown to the team and understands the pressures of the professional life of a rookie that doesn't always involve basketball. Simmons has cautioned Brown that sometimes family and friends change after that contract is signed and others giving financial advice are only looking to serve their best interests. These personal distractions officially become a team distraction once you're a part of the family.

"He's a good guy," says Simmons "and he's constantly picking my brain. And I don't mind at all! I told him at the start that there was no such things as stupid questions, but I don't think I had to tell him that. He asks a lot of smart questions about assignments on defense, how to switch on and off the pick and roll , and sometimes questions that we have to ask coach for the answer. He has a good head on his shoulders."

The future is looking bright and the Kings commitment to defense cannot be matched by any other team in the league. As the city of Sacramento prepares for more smash-mouth basketball only this team provides the rest of the west stands by and prepares.

We are now open for comments and questions. Thank you, I hope you enjoyed the read, and look forward to the upcoming season.

[jhow0036]

Just a few questions. In an off-season where many teams around you made moves you decided to stay put. Do you see yourself as a top 3 team in the west still having made no moves? Does the organization feel Karl has enough talent around him to take them to the Finals?

[NOLa.]

Nov 15, 2013 20:21:25 GMT -6 jhow0036 said:

Just a few questions. In an off-season where many teams around you made moves you decided to stay put. Do you see yourself as a top 3 team in the west still having made no moves? Does the organization feel Karl has enough talent around him to take them to the Finals?

Thank you for the questions.

I still see my team as the Pacific division leader. The Warriors have made moves and the Lakers loaded up on young talent in the draft. The Suns still have Hakeem that took MJ to seven games and the Trailblazers are tough when the management shows up. The Clippers are a solid big man from making a jump and the previous Sonics owner sold what he had in exchange for a future of high picks. What they each do with their new teams is something to see but I still feel I have an advantage in knowing I have a consistent team with a star player and a developing supporting cast.

The organization knows that without Karl Malone a deep run into the playoffs is just a fool's dream. However, the other starters will determine just how far this team will go. If I make the playoffs, no matter the seed and as long as I'm healthy, I think my team will cause matchup problems with anyone in the West.

[bowtothebill23]

As the reigning pacific champ returning all key prices, the kings are, not surprisingly, the front runners for the division crown. But with the warriors, lakers, and suns chasing, what record would you believe you'd have to go in those 12 games against those 3 if you wanna repeat as division champions? And what are your expectations for this season, and what would be the minimum for this season to be considered a success?

[NOLa.]

Nov 15, 2013 23:45:21 GMT -6 bowtothebill23 said:

As the reigning pacific champ returning all key prices, the kings are, not surprisingly, the front runners for the division crown. But with the warriors, lakers, and suns chasing, what record would you believe you'd have to go in those 12 games against those 3 if you wanna repeat as division champions? And what are your expectations for this season, and what would be the minimum for this season to be considered a success?

Great questions. Last season I think we finished with the third best record in the league but finished with the worst divisional record out of the other three division winners. The problems were on the road mainly but I chalked it up to the division being competitive as no one else in the Pacific finished with that great either. I think this next season we need to finish at least 7-5 against those three teams to put ourselves in the best position at the 1 or 2 seed in the playoffs. However, division titles are no longer relevant to the team as much as success in the playoffs.

The goal for this team is to represent the West in the Sim League Finals. Anything less than that would be considered falling short of expectations. The team was 2 points away from continuing their playoff run in a game 7 against eventual finalist Dallas Mavericks. Team has proven we are talented enough to get there but proving it on the court past those first 82 games is what really counts.

[Deleted]

How long do you thing you can realistically hold on the division title before other teams start really challenging you for it?

Some think you matched up with the Hawks better than the Dallas Maverick, how do you think you would have done in the finals if you made it there?

[78]

Are you looking to upgrade the SG position and if so who do you have in mind? Also, how do you feel about your frontcourt depth?

[78]

Can Karl Malone lead this team or any team to a championship?

[NOLa.]

Nov 16, 2013 9:39:06 GMT -6 ballsohard said:

How long do you thing you can realistically hold on the division title before other teams start really challenging you for it?

Some think you matched up with the Hawks better than the Dallas Maverick, how do you think you would have done in the finals if you made it there?

A realistic point of view is that any season anyone from the Pacific is capable of winning the division. The Warriors kept it close to the end but I pulled away winning my last 10 games when it mattered most. The Lakers are quickly mobilizing their way to the top and the Suns are figuring their team out but dangerous with the players they have. The division title is no longer our goal as much as it is another step to reaching the playoffs and ultimately a Finals appearance.

If the team was fortunate enough to make last season's Finals I felt I had a decent chance of forcing the series to 7 games. I don't think my odds would have been good going into the series just like everyone else. That team was dominant from the get-go and it lasted throughout the playoffs where he got tested by teams with elite big men and rolled through backcourt focused teams. Anything is possible within the sim and Malone was having a monster playoffs series before being locked down by the Mavs in game 7.

[IamQuailman]

William Maukie, Sr.: Hello. William Maukie, Sr. from Milwaukee Bucks Sports Journal. If you could pick one player that gives you fits when matching up, who would it be? Would it be a guy that could shut down Malone or would it be a guy who would score on you at one of your weaker defensive positions?

Also, how are the improvements to your stadium coming along?

[NOLa.]

Nov 16, 2013 9:48:16 GMT -6 78 said:

Can Karl Malone lead this team or any team to a championship?

Thank you for your questions!

To answer your first question, the Kings are always open to trade talks and if a discussion takes place that involves my SG position that can benefit both teams I'm interested. There is no player in particular I am looking for to fill that spot as I'm certain Kevin Edwards and rookie Randy Brown can provide defense and Lionell Simmons is versatile enough to play the 3/2. The frontcourt is solid if healthy with Malone starting 4, Lang starting 5 and backup 4, and Randy Breuer backing the 5. Each plays defense and rebounds and very physical style of play. We bring the toughness back to SacTown.

Malone will bring the Kings to the promiselands.

[NOLa.]

Nov 16, 2013 10:37:44 GMT -6 IamQuailman said:

William Maukie, Sr.: Hello. William Maukie, Sr. from Milwaukee Bucks Sports Journal. If you could pick one player that gives you fits when matching up, who would it be? Would it be a guy that could shut down Malone or would it be a guy who would score on you at one of your weaker defensive positions?

Also, how are the improvements to your stadium coming along?

Thank you for the questions Mr. Maukie.

The Golden State Warriors owner is going to love this answer and I think he knows the already as I've complained of his production before personally. PG Muggsy Bogues has proven to be the difference maker and pest in our series last season and is what really makes the offense click and go. Kemp and Malone will go at it and Lewis will get what's his, but without Muggsy I doubt that offense can play at the pace they play at which is beneficial for his team.

We are looking to have the largest seat capacity by the 1995 off-season pending commissioners approval. FINGERS CROSSED!

[TrayWithAnA]

Do you think that your franchise will pine for the success of the good ole days in 5, 10, 15 years? Do you think you are establishing a culture that can successfully rewrite history in the mid 2ks

[NOLa.]

Nov 16, 2013 23:08:59 GMT -6 TrayWithAnA said:

Do you think that your franchise will pine for the success of the good ole days in 5, 10, 15 years? Do you think you are establishing a culture that can successfully rewrite history in the mid 2ks

Thank you and interesting question!

There's no doubt in my mind by the 2000s I will look back and realize what a special team I have with a potential HOF player and a really good group of hardworking guys. However not many teams are built looking down the road that many years from now that realistically are playoff contenders. Signings and trades will have to be made and unfortunately Malone can't be in his prime forever. Hopefully we properly manage our team each off-season effectively and run into no roadblocks down the road.

[J2]

Hey, Johnny Junior from The Washington Post here. It seems as if you have very lofty expectations for this season. But it usually takes more than one superstar to legitimately compete for, much less win, an NBA title. Who are you looking at to step up and become the 2nd option this team may need to get over the hump?

[NOLa.]

Nov 17, 2013 0:09:26 GMT -6 J2 said:

Hey, Johnny Junior from The Washington Post here. It seems as if you have very lofty expectations for this season. But it usually takes more than one superstar to legitimately compete for, much less win, an NBA title. Who are you looking at to step up and become the 2nd option this team may need to get over the hump?

Hi Mr. Junior and welcome to Sacramento!

I for one do not feel two superstars are needed to win everything. The Hawks proved so last season in being a well built team led by Magic Johnson. I think a lot of stock gets placed on skill and talent rather than properly using your players to their fullest capabilities using your game plan. This team is dangerous to matchup against as not everyone can slow the tempo or play down low, and we feel using this identity will propel us to the Finals.

We set lofty goals because last season we feel we set out goals too low and regular season based due to the unknown of the creation draft. After a full season I have a good feel for my team and can properly set goals that I feel are within reach and the Finals are one of them.

[NOLa.]

The Sacramento Kings have officially underwent training camp and let's take an in-depth look at how our reigning Pacific Division Champions trained this offseason.

First let's give round of applause for newly acquired rookie Randy Brown for putting in the hard work to make it to the Sim League rotations. This late first round pick was targeted by the Kings before the draft started and management and feeling the dividends are already paying off. For a late first with a cheap contract, Brown gives me some versatility at the backup PG and SG spot and should provide instant defense.

Karl Malone continues to impress the Sacramento fans and leave their rivals in gasps. Now at 100 Inside Scoring (One of four players have this, only PF in league) the league leader in scoring just became even more dangerous on the inside and has improved his rebounding and defense. Malone once again comes out the biggest winner of the event.

And now to address the concerns everyone in the room must have when looking at the results. Lionel Simmons had a bad training camp and we feel it was our trainer that was the problem. We've decided to part ways with our former trainer and brought it a very prestigious prospect trainer Mr. Comp Uter. Mr. Comp Uter has has a very successful campaign in training several team's players after the teams decided to outsource their training department for a means of more efficient results. So please, welcome our new member on the team and if anyone has any questions for Mr. Uter please don't hesitate.

[NOLa.]

The Kings decided to start training camp just like last season: sit Malone at all costs and let the backups show their worth. It's a approach the team used last season and we felt we were able to better assess the value of prospects who normally don't see much playing time or opportunity come regular season. Although the Kings started 0-3 which was expected due to Malone sitting, several players have stood out that have proved they can step up when asked to provide valuable minutes off the bench.

Most Impressive: PF Jerrod Mustaf
This guy lived underneath Karl Malone's shadow last year but I didn't know he was able to do this. The numbers aren't explosive but the production is efficient! He averages 12 ppg and 7 rpg, but the most impressive stat is that he is shooting about 71% (2nd in the league) from the field as a starter on a team without its star. Several teams have expressed interest in Mustaf and the Kings are reportedly shopping Mustaf around in potential package deals.

Most Consistent: SG Kevin Edwards
Edwards was quiet last season but has improved to become a solid full time starter at SG with good defense and is shooting the 3 at 60% so far this preseason. When we need him to step up he does it with not-so-sexy stats but gets the job done. We're hoping Edwards can develop into a key player this or next season.

A couple of other guys that have stood out is SF Jerome Lane who is leading the team this preseason in offensive rebounds per game and tied for rebounds per game on the team. The SF is a beast on the boards and the team has been reportedly shopping him (about 5 teams) around and teams have noticed his skills in rebounding. Andrew Lang and Robert Breuer have solidified the C position and the dominance down low continues to show. Lang is blocking 2 a game and Randry Breuer avearages 2.3 per game. With Karl Malone thrown into the PF position the Kings are looking great down low.

[NOLa.]

@sactown Reports have been confirmed. The Kings have traded away Jerome Lane, 1993 1st, and 2 Points for PF/SF Derrick McKey. The Kings have been looking for a forward to add depth and talent and the coaches feel McKey is the perfect fit for their game plan going forward.

@sactown Trade still needs to pass the approval of the commissioner who has been looking for ways to hurt the Kings. SacTown is ready for riots.

[NOLa.]

I. Looking Forward

The preseason is officially over and the league is ready to switch over to full regular season mode. The Sacramento Kings had another unexciting preseason to the casual observer, but for the many Kings fans watching closely, the preseason was anything but unexciting. Sure, Malone didn't play more than 10 minutes this offseason. And yes, the first week of preseason was especially gruesome to watch even if predicted. But the Kings coaching staff is notable for experimenting and tinkering with lineup and different game plans for the offense and defense that the team does not normally run. The team doesn't just use the preseason as experiment runs as last season the coaching staff made drastic changes in a tough road stretch towards the end of the season after the built a small cushion in the division. The results weren't pretty in either cases, but the coaches look for any and all opportunities to learn more about the teams strengths and weaknesses as well as their capabilities and restrictions.

II. Late Trade Before Beginning of the Season
After an 0-3 start the Kings felt they weren't properly utilizing all of their players. Such was the case with Jerome Lane who is a relentless beast on the boards and a fan favorite. The Kings weren't in need of the production Lane can bring to  team with bigs that can already rebound effectively, reducing the minutes to give to Lane in the process. Lane by himself is a better rebounder than most teams have on their roster and will be missed, but in return for Lane, the Kings acquired Derrick McKey to fill the backup PF/SF spot. The Kings felt they needed to add depth to their team with better balanced players and is happy to welcome McKey to the organization. Are the Kings done there? According to sources the Kings are thinking of pushing a player or two on the trade block, but are looking to see how this team performs before considering making immediate and final moves.

III. Rookie Shows Versatility
When the Sacramento Kings entered the draft with the 27th pick of the 1991 Sim League Draft, there were a lot of question marks regarding possible players that would fall to the end of the round and whether there was any possible talent to be gained that would fit a team need. After a couple of discussions with other general managers, the Kings decided against trading their pick for scraps in hopes of finding a useful player. The Kings would later pick Randy Brown at #27 and hoped he may possibly play a solid 10-12 minutes to give Pooh Richardson a rest.

After the preseason, coaches now have to find Brown more time to give him. Given the opportunity to play majority minutes at the backup PG/SG spots, Brown led the team in PPG and SPG and shot 43%. While the team doesn't expect him to put those numbers up consistently or against the top talents of the West, coaches are still impressed and trusts that this rookie can hold his own. Randy isn't the most talented player and there's a reason why teams passed him up, but the Kings always search for fit and team needs instead of overall talent to add to the team. The Kings feel Brown fits the teams mold and can later be a viable starting option later in his career.

[IamQuailman]

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