A dramatic return to Sacramento for Knicks coach Mike Brown ended in disappointment as the Kings spoiled the occasion with a dominant 112-101 victory. This game, played on January 14, 2026, was more than just a regular NBA matchup; it was a highly anticipated reunion and a chance for the Kings to showcase their recent form.
DeMar DeRozan, a seasoned NBA veteran, led the Kings with 27 points, moving him up to 22nd place on the NBA's all-time scoring list. This achievement is particularly impressive as DeRozan, a six-time All-Star, has been a consistent performer throughout his 17-year career. His performance, including a perfect 12 out of 13 free throws, was a key factor in the Kings' success.
But here's where it gets controversial... The Kings' win came against a Knicks team missing their star player, Jalen Brunson, who suffered an ankle injury early in the game. Without Brunson, the Knicks struggled, shooting only 39% from the field and an abysmal 8 out of 41 from three-point range.
And this is the part most people miss... The Kings' victory was a true team effort. While DeRozan's scoring was crucial, it was the contributions of players like Mikal Bridges (19 points), OG Anunoby (15 points), and Karl-Anthony Towns (13 points) that kept the Knicks at bay.
The Kings' recent form has been impressive, with this win being their third in a row. They've now defeated some of the NBA's biggest names, including the Rockets, Lakers, and now the Knicks. Precious Achiuwa, a former Knick, had a standout performance with 20 points and 14 rebounds, while Russell Westbrook added to the Kings' success with 19 points and 11 assists.
The game also marked a special moment for Mike Brown, who was warmly welcomed back to Sacramento. Brown, a two-time NBA Coach of the Year winner, helped end the Kings' lengthy playoff drought in 2023. However, his return was bittersweet, as he was fired early in the 2024-25 season by the Kings' owner, Vivek Ranadive. Despite this, Brown and Ranadive shared an emotional embrace courtside, showing a level of respect and camaraderie that transcends the game.
As for the future, the Knicks will look to bounce back when they visit the Golden State Warriors on Thursday, while the Kings host the Washington Wizards on Friday.
So, what do you think? Was the Kings' win a true testament to their recent form, or did the absence of Brunson play a significant role? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
