It's pretty crazy, but Domantas Sabonis could miss the All-Star Game. Places are very expensive in the West, and the Kings interior is really not certain of being selected if the Western Conference coaches prefer to reward a second player from the Wolves, to accompany Anthony Edwards. It would undoubtedly be unfair since the Lithuanian signed his best career season with 20 points, 13 rebounds and 8 assists on average!
Last night, in the victory against Jaren Jackson Jr's Grizzlies, the Kings interior posted a performance never seen since Wilt Chamberlain: 20 points, 26 rebounds, 5 assists on 10 out of 11 shots! “Domas was monstrous! That's why he's in the All-Star Game discussion, and that's why he's in the MVP discussion.” Mike Brown ignites. “He comes up with stats like Wilt Chamberlain. Obviously, I'm not saying that Domas is Wilt, but it's absolutely incredible to be mentioned alongside him with such a stat line. »
Best rebounder in the NBA, Sabonis is not the biggest and heaviest interior player. “ The first thing is that he has flair. And then, he's strong. He can take shots without losing his balance, and he knows when to go for the rebound. It’s part of his flair… He may not jump very high, but he jumps fast” Brown analyzes. “Sometimes he deflects the ball for himself. He has all his little tricks that allow him to be a remarkable rebounder. And we need it given the size of our team. »
What tips to shine on the rebound?
What Kevin Huerter highlights is Sabonis' consistency but also his endurance. “What’s impressive is that he gives his all every night. 82 matches out of 82 matches, he wants to be on the field. He sets the tone on both ends of the court. There is this energy, but also the way he speaks to us to push us to seek victory.”
With his 26 rebounds, Sabonis equals a franchise record, held by Chris Webber since 2001, and he signs a personal best. But don't count on him to deliver his tips for shining on the rebound. “I can't reveal all my secrets… But you have to position yourself well when the others are shooting, and there's no point in staying in one place. You have to anticipate. And then, when you shoot 28% from 3-point range, it helps you get offensive rebounds. »
