The Sacramento Kings, flaunting a flawless In-Season tournament group stage, found themselves in a fierce quarterfinals face-off against the New Orleans Pelicans. Despite the Kings’ reputation as an offensive powerhouse, they encountered a hurdle, especially against the Pelicans, a team they’ve struggled against in recent matchups. The intensity heightened as De’Aaron Fox, Keegan Murray, and Malik Monk faced challenges to replicate their usual stellar performances against the Pelicans.
Keegan Murray’s Terrifying Scare
In a riveting first quarter that witnessed a staggering 71 combined points, the Kings marginally led at 36-35. However, the game took an unexpected turn as the second quarter unfolded, with the Kings facing a concerning moment involving Keegan Murray.
Herbert Jones vs Sacramento Kings
23 PTS
5 REB
5 AST
2 BLK
8/13 FG
3/5 3P#Pelicans W pic.twitter.com/vpfHpKqXt6— A Walking Highlight (@11AWH) December 5, 2023
Murray’s Alarming Exit
During the game, a concerning incident gripped the Sacramento Kings when Keegan Murray appeared to suffer a back-related discomfort after contesting a shot from Brandon Ingram. The specifics of any injury remain undisclosed, but observers noted Murray’s apparent discomfort.
Deuce Mason reported, “Keegan Murray is headed to the locker room. Looked like he grabbed his back after contesting a Brandon Ingram jumper.”
Despite contributing 8 points and displaying a strong shooting record of 3-4 from the floor, Murray exited the court with nearly 7 minutes remaining in the second quarter.
Murray’s Return and Game Dynamics
Following halftime, Murray received clearance to return, rejoining the game and adding 6 more points to the Kings’ tally. However, his earlier scoring momentum had faded, with his field goal attempts sitting at 5-9 by the close of the third quarter, during which the Pelicans led 100-91.
Intensifying Fourth Quarter and Key Performances
The Pelicans, led by Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram’s dynamic play, pushed the Kings to their limits. Domantas Sabonis responded to the challenge, eyeing a triple-double, while De’Aaron Fox showcased a formidable 25-point performance.
Meanwhile, Brandon Ingram showcased his prowess with 27 points, aiming for a 30-point game. Zion Williamson faced a performance struggle, tallying only 10 points despite earlier standout games against other opponents.
Additionally, Herb Jones emerged as a surprising offensive asset for the Pelicans, scoring 19 points on an impressive 7-12 shooting.
In a match teeming with intense moments and individual performances, Murray’s injury scare remained a focal point, adding to the gripping narrative of the Kings-Pelicans face-off.
