Sacramento Wins with Terrible Defense against the Nuggets – 120 to 113

Jan 3, 2017; Denver, CO, USA; Sacramento Kings forward DeMarcus Cousins (left) drives to the basket against Denver Nuggets forward Nikola Jokic (right) during the second half at Pepsi Center. The Kings won 120-113. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2017; Denver, CO, USA; Sacramento Kings forward DeMarcus Cousins (left) drives to the basket against Denver Nuggets forward Nikola Jokic (right) during the second half at Pepsi Center. The Kings won 120-113. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
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Jan 3, 2017; Denver, CO, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Garrett Temple (17) shoots the ball against Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (27) during the second half at Pepsi Center. The Kings won 120-113. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2017; Denver, CO, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Garrett Temple (17) shoots the ball against Denver Nuggets guard Jamal Murray (27) during the second half at Pepsi Center. The Kings won 120-113. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

Coach Malone said the Nuggets defense is the worst in the NBA. Statistically, he is correct. However, Sacramento beat the Nuggets playing bad defense also.

Coach, what are the stats on defensive stops, unsuccessful screens, steals, close outs, or blocks? I didn’t hear any defensive stats.

Why do we discuss offense when we have no numbers on defense and yet we claim defense lost the game?

I understand Coach Malone was reacting to the loss with anger, rather than trying to determine the reason for the differential.

He should see certain things happening during the game. His defensive coach should make him aware and adjust movements and match-ups continuously.

Don’t blame the guys about leadership or say how bad they are on defense. Sacramento was almost as bad, and won.

Guys, you are not quite earning your paychecks. You should have beat Sacramento after the great way you played against Golden State.