SACRAMENTO – In the midst of Kings training camp, Malik Monk finds himself caught in a double-team by Jordan Ford and Jaylen Nowell. Frustrated by not receiving a foul call, Monk begins to complain to the referee, but a whistle finally sounds from the opposite side of the gym. Kings coach Mike Brown erupts in anger, shouting expletives and expressing his frustration with the team’s lack of focus.
The Kings had a dream season last year, making the playoffs for the first time in 16 years before losing to the Golden State Warriors in seven games. Brown was particularly upset with his team’s performance in Game 4, where they wasted possessions and complained instead of capitalizing on opportunities.
Despite the growing buzz and anticipation surrounding the Kings’ upcoming season, the atmosphere within the team has been tense. Brown, an empowered head coach, has erased their accomplishments from last year and is pushing them harder to improve. The players acknowledge the need for hard work and attention to detail in order to reach their goals.
During training camp, Brown reminded the team that being good is the enemy of being great. He emphasized the importance of open communication, embracing adversity, and pushing themselves to be uncomfortable in order to prepare for a playoff run. Brown believes that the team has the potential to compete for a championship and is focused on improving their defense, even if it means sacrificing some of their offensive prowess.
The playoff series against the Warriors gave Brown and the team a reason to believe in their capabilities. They showed physicality, executed their scouting reports, and made life difficult for the Warriors. Now, they aim to improve their defense and finish in the top 15 or top 10 defensively, while maintaining their high-powered offense. Brown and his staff are determined to turn the Kings into lasting contenders and compete for a championship.