With the Kings of SacramentoWith the offseason addition of six-time All-Star wing DeMar DeRozan, many followers questioned how this transfer would have an effect on rising star Keegan Murray. Whereas Murray is anticipated to play alongside DeRozan within the beginning lineup, the 24-year-old ahead should go well with up on either side of the ball.
Murray has primarily performed small ahead since getting into the league in 2022, however subsequent to DeRozan, he’ll probably be moved to energy ahead within the beginning lineup.
Murray, 6-foot-8, has the body to play the place, however it might end in loads of matchups he isn’t used to.
To organize for this transformation, Murray talked about making ready to defend greater gamers (by way of James Ham | The Kings Beat):
It’s going to be enjoyable to tackle one other problem, simply to see what I am able to, so I am excited for that. I attempted just a little with Workforce USA to attempt to preserve greater guys simply to get an thought… Mike [Brown] Informed me that is most likely what was going to occur.
– Keegan Murray, Sacramento Kings
Keegan Murray mentioned he labored to get stronger to play in opposition to greater gamers this season with the addition of DeMar DeRozan. pic.twitter.com/ddUiYy2jGa
– James Ham (@James_HamNBA) September 30, 2024
Kings head coach Mike Brown additionally commented on Murray’s adjustment, telling the media precisely what the younger ahead is engaged on to arrange (by way of Brenden Nunes | Sactown Sports activities 1140):
[Murray] should proceed to get stronger with out gaining bulk. I do not need him to show right into a ‘energy’ man… You may have to have the ability to take that hit, keep robust, preserve sliding and Keegan is heading in that route… I am excited. seeing Keegan take this step.
– Mike Brown, Sacramento Kings
At media day, Keegan Murray mentioned he’s making ready to defend greater gamers this season.
I requested Mike Brown at this time what he must do to excel at it.
“You may have to have the ability to take that hit, keep robust, preserve sliding and Keegan is heading in that route.” pic.twitter.com/t1WkB41lKG
– Brenden Nunes (@BrendenNunesNBA) October 2, 2024
Murray’s development as a defender has been very spectacular since his rookie season, and he ought to proceed to excel on that aspect of the ball. Murray turned a dominant two-way presence after establishing himself as an elite shooter throughout his freshman 12 months.
With the addition of DeRozan, Sacramento’s defensive weapons might be that rather more vital. It is clear that Sacramento will not wrestle on offense, however utilizing defensive specialists like Keon Ellis and Murray to type a high staff on each ends of the ground will cause them to title rivalry.
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