Sacramento Kings head coach Doug Christie addressed his team’s 107–101 defeat to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday night, highlighting the need for better execution in the closing minutes. Christie said the Kings struggled with rebounds and stops in crucial moments, which ultimately contributed to the loss.
“We probably should be 4-0, but we’re not ready to be 4 and 0,” Christie said. He added that the team must focus on fundamentals like free throws, defensive rebounds, and maintaining energy throughout the game.
Christie defended his decision to implement various zone defenses during the contest. “Players are too good. Once you show it once or twice, they figure it out,” he said, explaining that switching zones can create confusion for opponents while keeping Sacramento’s defense dynamic.
The coach also discussed rotation and lineup adjustments, noting that the Kings have used four different starting lineups in as many games. Christie emphasized that energy, effort, and enthusiasm remain his top priorities regardless of personnel changes. “The guys that played, I thought played really hard, and the fight was definitely there,” he said.
Russell Westbrook made his first start of the season for Sacramento, contributing 16 points and nine rebounds. Christie praised the veteran guard’s leadership and communication. “Watching him compete, watching his aggressiveness… these guys need to see that because the only way for us to improve is to communicate and hold each other accountable,” Christie said.
The Kings led by as many as 13 points after an 11-0 run in the third quarter but could not contain Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 31 points to lead Oklahoma City’s comeback. Lu Dort and Alex Caruso hit key threes in the fourth quarter, helping the Thunder erase the deficit and secure the win.
Zach LaVine led Sacramento with 23 points, while DeMar DeRozan added 19 and Domantas Sabonis had 10 points with 18 rebounds. Christie stressed that even with strong individual performances, execution in high-pressure moments is critical.
The Kings will visit the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday, looking to rebound after dropping to 1–3 on the season.
