NBA Power Rankings Week 2: The rise of the Atlanta Hawks

Last Week: Lost to Phoenix Suns 116-100, Beat Denver Nuggets 125-115, Lost to Houston Rockets 122-119, Lost to the Houston Rockets 102-94

This Week: 1/4/2021 at Golden State Warriors, 1/6/2021 vs. Chicago Bulls, 1/8/2021 vs. Toronto Raptors, 1/2021 vs. Portland Trail Blazers

The Sacramento Kings came back down to earth over the last two games after dropping a pair to the Houston Rockets but fans of the team should hold their head high. There is something here. While that may not result in a playoff berth this season, Sacramento appears at least back on track.

If not for an unfortunate injury to Tyrese Haliburton, the entire Kings’ young core would be continuing to share the floor and they finally seem to fit. De’Aaron Fox needs to improve his efficiency but he is asked to do quite a bit so missing some shots can be forgiven. Buddy Hield clearly feels more comfortable back in his starting role. He will not get nearly enough mention, but Richaun Holmes is an essential part of this team. He creates so many extra possession by dominating the offensive glass.

It is easier to talk about the gaudy scoring numbers of the aforementioned guards or appreciate the fact that Marvin Bagley III has been healthy to start the season. Keep doing just that. Holmes will continue to pull additional chances at points out of nowhere for his teammates and keep on hustling.

It is tough to say Luke Walton does not deserve credit but often times it feels like this team is winning in spite of their leading voice, not because of him. Time will tell how real this early season averageness is. But for now the Kings are quite fun.