Keon Ellis scored 21 points, including five three-pointers, to help the Sacramento Kings secure a 113-107 victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday at Golden 1 Center. The swingman set the tone early with 13 first-quarter points, giving Sacramento a double-digit lead.
Ellis spoke about the impact of making his first shot of the game: “Especially when the first opportunity you get is a three and it goes, it’s kind of easy to flow into the game… That energy kind of just carried throughout the team.”
The 23-year-old highlighted Sacramento’s defensive effort: “I guess just the effort on the defensive end, helping for one another… Tonight I think we did a good job at not letting go of the rope.”
Ellis addressed his fluctuating playing time this season, explaining how he stays ready: “From the beginning of the season… you don’t really know what to expect. You just kind of got to stay ready… For tonight to start and have a game like this, it’s definitely good to find that rhythm again.”
The guard detailed his preparation when minutes are uncertain: “A lot of work behind the scenes… You kind of don’t know when your number might get called… When you’re out there, just try not to do too much, keep it simple, and get in where you fit in.”
Ellis also reflected on playing alongside Russell Westbrook: “Russ is really down to earth… He’s real energetic, real talkative, talking to everybody from staff to players… Just really down to earth and more so a better off-the-court teammate.”
He added, “I wouldn’t say a real or a different impact on my game than what my mindset is going into any game… My game doesn’t really change too much.”
On managing uncertainty with contract situations and playing time, Ellis said: “I won’t sit and think back on this one too much… Just day by day, just glad to get the win and get this game under my belt.”
Sacramento leaned on perimeter shooting, finishing 17-of-38 from three-point range. Maxime Raynaud added 19 points, Dennis Schroder contributed 10 off the bench, and rookie Nique Clifford recorded eight points and nine rebounds.
Dallas closed the gap to 111-107 with nine seconds left, but DeMar DeRozan converted two free throws to seal the victory. The Kings improved to 8-23 and extended their winning streak against Dallas to four games. Sacramento will face the Lakers on Sunday, while Dallas heads to Portland on Monday.
