Known for not being part of the league's benchmarks in defense, even if they progressed last season, the Kings did not particularly seek to strengthen themselves in the field this summer. Thus, they focused on the arrival of DeMar DeRozan, above all renowned for his offensive qualities.
But on the side of Californian leaders, we are not that worried about the defensive aspect, Monte McNair being excited about it.
“ What matters to us is that DeMar was part of the Top 5 best defenses in Chicago and he was also a member of good defensive teams in Toronto and San Antonio » declared the GM of Sacramento. “ So I think he can do the same here. We made progress last season. In the end, it doesn't matter how you get there: teams have had success by having the better offense and more average defense, and vice versa. We've seen it over the last few years and I think what we're looking to do is find a way to beat a team, any way, any night. And I think last season we showed that we can win on defense. »
“Underestimated” defenders?
In addition to DeMar DeRozan, the Kings brought in Jalen McDaniels, Devin Carter and Jordan McLaughlin, at the same time parting ways with Harrison Barnes, Davion Mitchell, Sasha Vezenkov and Chris Duarte. Enough to aim far in the playoffs, as desired by the front office of the Californian franchise?
“ I think some of our defenders may be underestimated » Monte McNair initially judged. “ Then, I would say that adding players like McLaughlin, Carter when he recovers and McDaniels will also help us strengthen our defense. So it doesn't matter how you get there as long as you end up with more points than the opponent at the end, and I think we'll have a lot of ways to get there.. »
Not impossible with players like Domantas Sabonis, De'Aaron Fox, Keegan Murray, Malik Monk, Kevin Huerter and therefore DeMar DeRozan.
