Fox overcomes shooting slump to fuel Kings’ gutsy win vs. Nets

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Fox overcomes shooting slump to fuel Kings’ gutsy win vs. Nets originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area

De’Aaron Fox broke out of his slump in style – and possibly in pain as well.

In a game that the Kings were neck and neck in, Fox proved to be the difference by providing a big spark in the third quarter when he scored 18 points to guide Sacramento to a 110-96 win over the Brooklyn Nets on Monday at Barclays Center.

The star Kings guard, who has taped up his weary left ring and pinky fingers played through a sprained right thumb for a second consecutive road game.

In an NBA plagued by star players opting to sit out, Fox is doing the opposite. Sacramento’s interim head coach Doug Christie respects that.

“I really love him for that because it’s a sign of maturity and leadership,” Christie told reporters.

“Being in this league for many years, no one is completely healthy so you’re trying to find your way. There’s a difference between being hurt and being injured.

“And him just continuing to be willing to work through bumps and bruises is like super huge. I think his teammates recognize that. I know and I hope that he recognizes that I do because that is big-time leadership. There will be nights when he’s feeling more like this and there will be nights when he’s feeling more like dropping 13 assists.”

On Monday night, Fox didn’t drop 13 assists. Instead, the star guard registered seven assists while erupting for 30 points for the first time since Jan 1.

Considering that the 2024-25 NBA season has been rough on Fox’s health – especially the month of January – it’s a breath of fresh air for Kings to get optimal output out of the franchise’s cornerstone player.

“More than anything, when you get that aggressive Fox, it’s a special sight to behold,” Christie added. “He can get downhill when he wants. He’s got the floater.

“All of a sudden, the three ball starts to fall. He gets to the free throw line. All of those things add up. I even think defensively, when he’s engaged, that physical presence. He’s a load to deal with. I was really happy to see it.”

Fox wasn’t the…

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Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/fox-overcomes-shooting-slump-fuel-210646057.html

Author : NBC Sports BayArea

Publish date : 2025-01-27 21:06:00

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