Rookie Raynaud Soars, Kings Overcome in Shocking Comeback
Rookie Raynaud scores 28 points as Kings overcome Pelicans in shocking comeback victory, improving to 21-57 with two wins in a row. New Orleans drops seven straight games and fall to 25-53.
Maxime Raynaud poured in 28 points and led the Sacramento Kings to a surprising victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. The rookie forward hit every shot he attempted from the field (11 of 14) and even had six blocks, contributing eight rebounds with his dashing style on the boards. His teammates Nique Clifford added 23 points and Daeqwon Plowden chipped in 17 points for the Kings, lifting them past their struggles this season to improve to 21-57 after two consecutive victories.
In contrast, New Orleans' Jeremiah Fears led with a game-high 28 points but couldn’t overcome a second-quarter deficit of 19 points as they lost seven straight games and fall to 25-53. The Pelicans were particularly vulnerable early in the game, leading by just seven at half-time. The Kings took the lead back down the stretch with a stellar performance from Daeqwon Plowden's three free throws in the closing minutes.
For the Pelicans, it was Zion Williamson and Trey Murphy III who led with 13 points each, but they couldn’t shake off their early struggles. Up next for New Orleans: A tough road against Orlando on Sunday night. The Kings will take on Los Angeles Clippers at home following this win.
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