The Golden State Warriors vs Sacramento Kings Match Player Stats from the April 16, 2024, NBA Play-In Tournament reveal a dramatic shift in momentum for two teams with very different trajectories. In a do-or-die battle, the Kings emerged with ferocity and firepower, blowing out the Warriors 118–94. What was expected to be a tight game instead turned into a statement victory for Sacramento — and a crushing reality check for Golden State.
This in-depth breakdown explores how the Kings dismantled the Warriors with surgical precision, spotlighting five shocking player statlines that changed the course of the contest. From Keegan Murray’s breakout performance to Klay Thompson’s disappearing act, this game will be remembered as a defining moment of the 2024 NBA postseason — and perhaps a signal of changing tides in the Western Conference.
Keegan Murray’s Offensive Explosion Shocks the Warriors
One of the most surprising performances came from second-year forward Keegan Murray, who lit up the stat sheet with 32 points, 9 rebounds, and 8-of-13 shooting from beyond the arc.
Murray’s confidence was evident early, and his rhythm from deep exposed Golden State’s defensive rotations. He moved off the ball with precision, utilized screens set by Sabonis to get open looks, and drained momentum-killing threes throughout the game.
Key Attributes:
- Shot efficiency (FG%, 3PT%)
- Spatial awareness on the perimeter
- Off-ball movement and floor spacing
What’s more, Murray’s contributions weren’t limited to scoring — his rebounding presence and positional defense helped Sacramento maintain control on both ends of the court.
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De’Aaron Fox Dictates Tempo with Veteran Composure
De’Aaron Fox continues to evolve into a franchise leader, and this performance was a masterclass in pace control and shot selection. He finished with 24 points, 6 assists, and 4 rebounds, orchestrating the Kings’ offense with elite poise.
Fox used his speed not just to blow by defenders, but also to manipulate matchups and draw defensive attention away from shooters like Murray. His mid-range game and transition attack were particularly effective, neutralizing Golden State’s attempts to disrupt Sacramento’s flow.
Core Elements:
- Pick-and-roll efficiency
- Assist-to-turnover ratio
- Court vision under pressure
Fox also stepped up defensively, pressuring Curry in key stretches and forcing the Warriors to adjust their offensive schemes.
Domantas Sabonis Anchors the Paint with a Triple Threat Game
Domantas Sabonis was the glue that held the Kings’ offense and defense together. He tallied a double-double with 16 points, 12 rebounds, and 7 assists, demonstrating once again why he’s considered one of the NBA’s best passing bigs.
Operating out of the high post, Sabonis distributed the ball like a seasoned point forward. His ability to set hard screens, roll into the lane, and kick out to open shooters made him a constant threat.
Highlights:
- Post-to-perimeter facilitation
- High-post passing network
- Defensive rebounding positioning
Sabonis also played a pivotal role in limiting the Warriors’ second-chance opportunities, boxing out with intensity and denying offensive boards.
Keon Ellis Delivers Defensive Masterclass Off the Bench
While not a household name, Keon Ellis turned heads with a gritty, all-around performance. He recorded 15 points, 5 assists, 3 steals, and 3 blocks, igniting the Kings’ bench and setting the tone defensively.
Ellis’s perimeter defense disrupted passing lanes, and he converted turnovers into transition opportunities. His hustle, energy, and awareness injected life into Sacramento during critical stretches of the game.
Notable Attributes:
- On-ball defensive IQ
- Help-side shot blocking
- Two-way efficiency
Ellis is quickly making a name for himself as a reliable two-way contributor with starter potential.
Warriors Collapse: Curry Alone Can’t Save the Dynasty
On the opposite end of the stat sheet, Stephen Curry was the lone bright spot for Golden State. He posted 22 points on 50% shooting, including 3-of-7 from deep, but also committed 6 turnovers under relentless defensive pressure.
Despite his efforts, Curry couldn’t overcome Sacramento’s team defense and lacked offensive help from his supporting cast. The Kings double-teamed him off screens, forced him into tight spaces, and cut off his passing lanes.
Even more stunning was Klay Thompson’s scoreless outing. He missed all 10 of his shot attempts, finishing the night with zero points — a stat line that stunned even the most casual fans. It was one of the worst postseason-like performances in his career and raised serious questions about his future with the franchise.
Secondary Notes:
- Warriors’ turnover margin
- Three-point shooting disparity
- Poor ball movement and stagnant offense
The Warriors’ bench showed sparks — Kuminga and Moody each scored 16 points — but without meaningful contributions from Thompson and Draymond Green, their playoff dreams ended swiftly.
Conclusion: A Turning Point in Western Conference Hierarchy
The Golden State Warriors vs Sacramento Kings Match Player Stats reveal more than just a blowout win. They highlight a power shift in the Western Conference, where youth, speed, and depth triumphed over age and legacy.
Sacramento’s dominance wasn’t a fluke — it was the result of well-coordinated team basketball, defensive tenacity, and emerging stars stepping up in the spotlight. The Warriors, on the other hand, face an uncertain offseason, with major questions surrounding their aging core.
As the Kings prepare for a deeper playoff run, the Warriors must now decide whether it’s time for a rebuild or one final push.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What was the final score between Golden State and Sacramento?
The Sacramento Kings defeated the Golden State Warriors 118–94 in the 2024 NBA Play-In Tournament.
Q2. Who was the top scorer in the game?
Keegan Murray led all scorers with 32 points, including 8 three-pointers.
Q3. How did Stephen Curry perform?
Curry scored 22 points on 50% shooting but struggled with 6 turnovers due to heavy defensive pressure.
Q4. Did Klay Thompson score any points?
No, Thompson went 0-for-10 from the field and finished with zero points.
Q5. What’s next for the Warriors after this loss?
The Warriors are eliminated from playoff contention and will enter the offseason facing difficult roster decisions.
