Kings Rookie Poised for Record-Breaking Season
The Sacramento Kings are having a challenging season, currently standing at 9-30 and placing 14th in the Western Conference. Amidst this struggle, rookie big man Maxime Raynaud stands out as a beacon of hope. Chosen as the 42nd pick in the NBA draft, Raynaud has surpassed expectations, proving himself to be one of the draft’s biggest steals.
Maxime Raynaud’s Rise
Initially, Raynaud’s start to the season was sluggish, suggesting he would require time to gain the experience and strength necessary to contribute effectively. However, the injury of fellow player Domantas Sabonis thrust him into the starting lineup, where he has since flourished. As of now, the 22-year-old athlete averages:
- 10.5 points per game
- 6.5 rebounds per game
- 1.1 assists per game
- Field goal percentage: 55.9%
- Three-point percentage: 30.4%
This performance makes Raynaud the first Kings rookie since DeMarcus Cousins to achieve similar numbers, with Cousins averaging 14.1 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists in the 2010-11 season.
Exceptional Efficiency
Raynaud’s efficiency is noteworthy. His 55.9% field goal percentage makes him unique among Kings players in the Sacramento Era, while Cousins had a field goal percentage of 43.0% as a rookie. The last player to post these numbers was Otis Thorpe during the 1984-85 season.
Raynaud’s shot distribution reveals his scoring technique. He averages only 2.5 field goal attempts in the restricted area, primarily scoring with a floater. His shooting success includes:
- 69.7% from the rim
- 54.0% from the non-restricted paint area
Among players with at least 50 attempts in the floater area, Raynaud ranks 17th in efficiency. His recent games have seen this percentage rise to 65.3%, showcasing his ability to adapt and improve rapidly.
Role in the Kings’ Offense
Raynaud’s versatility enhances the Kings’ offense, especially in pick-and-roll situations. Despite a lack of effective plays outside of isolation scoring, Raynaud demonstrates his importance by consistently executing his role efficiently. Despite a rocky start to the season, he has progressed remarkably within just 31 games.
Future Potential
While Raynaud still has room for growth, particularly in defense and three-point shooting, he exhibits the qualities of a future star. Currently, he profiles as a strong candidate for a starting position or a vital reserve. His recent performance includes an impressive average of 8.9 rebounds per game since stepping into the starting role.
In a season marred by trade rumors and disappointment, Maxime Raynaud’s growth is a significant positive for the Kings. His ability to develop and contribute now will be crucial as the team looks to regain its footing in the NBA.
