Kings Doin’ Things

04/18/2023 Kings Doin’ Things

By: Matthew Cahill

Kings & 76ers Take 2-0 Series Leads Over Warriors & Nets

Two down, two to go! The 3-seeds are hot to open the NBA Playoffs after Monday night’s doubleheader where the Kings and 76ers opened up 2-0 series leads over the Warriors and Nets, respectively. Brooklyn looks dead in the water, but we know Golden State can turn the tide at home. Here’s the rundown from last night with a trio of games on the docket this evening.

 

#3 76ers def. #6 Nets (96-84)

The 76ers went up 2-0 on the Nets in a defensive battle during Monday’s early game. Philly trailed by five at halftime before outscoring Brooklyn by 17 in the second half. Joel Embiid (20-19-7-3) had a monster night with 19 boards and three blocks, but Game 2 was the Tyrese Maxey game. The Kentucky product went for 33 points, including six 3s. The Sixers dominated the glass (56-33), and Brooklyn’s first-round chances look bleak. PHI Leads Series (2-0)

 

#3 Kings def. #6 Warriors (114-106)

The Kings lit the beam once more to hand the defending champs a 2-0 series hole. Game 2 was another tight one until the final minutes. Domantas Sabonis (24-9-4) and De’Aaron Fox (24-9-5-4) were the catalysts for Sacramento. Golden State’s big three — Klay Thompson (21), Andrew Wiggins (22), and Steph Curry (28) — combined for 71, but it wasn’t enough to outlast the Kings. The Warriors have been notorious for road losses and dominating play at home, so we’ll see if the series swings back even after two games in the Bay. SAC Leads Series (2-0)

 

Tonight’s Schedule

Gm 2: #7 Hawks at #2 Celtics (7:00 pm ET)

Gm 2: #5 Knicks at #4 Cavaliers (7:30 pm ET)

Gm 2: #5 Clippers at #4 Suns (10:00 pm ET)

 

Additional Storylines

The Ringer: The Biggest Question for Every NBA First-Round Series

B/R: Grizzlies’ Jaren Jackson Jr. Named NBA Defensive Player of the Year

 

Photo: Ezra Shaw / Getty Images