The Golden State Warriors vs Sacramento Kings game on April 16, 2024, was one of the most talked about matchups in the NBA Play-In Tournament. It was a high-stakes game between two teams fighting for a spot in the NBA postseason. Played at the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California, the game ended in a blowout. The Sacramento Kings won with a final score of 118–94, eliminating the Golden State Warriors from the playoffs.
This was the second time the teams clashed in a short span. In their regular-season meeting on March 13, 2024, the Golden State Warriors had won big with a final score of 130–104 at the Chase Center in San Francisco. But in the do-or-die game on April 16, the Sacramento Kings team performance completely outshined their opponents.
Golden State Warriors: Player Performance & Key Stats
The Golden State Warriors had a rough night. Stephen Curry led the team with 22 points, but he also had 6 turnovers. That lack of control hurt the team’s chances. He tried to carry the offense, but the shot efficiency just wasn’t there. The rest of the team didn’t provide much support, and the game slipped away.
One of the biggest surprises was Klay Thompson’s scoreless performance. He shot 0-for-10, marking one of the worst games of his career. It was a sharp contrast to his usual shooting prowess. Players like Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody also struggled. The team ended with a 41.2% field goal percentage and 32.4% from three-point range.
Golden State Warriors Key Stats (April 16, 2024):
| Player | Points | FG% | 3P% | Turnovers |
| Stephen Curry | 22 | 42.9% | 36% | 6 |
| Klay Thompson | 0 | 0.0% | 0.0% | 1 |
| Jonathan Kuminga | 12 | 47% | 25% | 2 |
| Moses Moody | 9 | 38% | 33% | 1 |
Sacramento Kings: Player Performance Highlights
The Sacramento Kings were sharp from the start. Keegan Murray was on fire, scoring 32 points and hitting 8 three-pointers. He also grabbed 9 rebounds, showing hustle on both ends. His three-point record in this game was key to the Kings’ momentum.
De’Aaron Fox had a strong outing too, scoring 24 points and handing out 6 assists. His speed and transition scoring kept the Golden State Warriors on their heels. Domantas Sabonis delivered another double-double with 16 points, 12 rebounds, and 7 assists, proving why he is one of the most valuable big men in the 2024 NBA season.
Sacramento Kings Key Stats (April 16, 2024):
| Player | Points | REB | AST | 3PM | FG% |
| Keegan Murray | 32 | 9 | 2 | 8 | 58% |
| De’Aaron Fox | 24 | 4 | 6 | 3 | 51% |
| Domantas Sabonis | 16 | 12 | 7 | 0 | 61% |
| Keon Ellis | 10 | 3 | 4 | 2 | 50% |
Key Performance Metrics: A Comparative Analysis
The match player stats tell the full story. The Sacramento Kings shot 43.9% from the field and 46.2% from the three-point line, showing excellent offensive flow. In contrast, the Golden State Warriors managed just 41.2% FG and 32.4% 3PT, which wasn’t enough to keep up.
Another big factor was turnovers and rebounds. The Warriors turned the ball over too many times and failed to dominate the boards. The Kings had better ball movement, more hustle plays, and better screen setting.
Key Metrics Comparison:
| Category | Warriors | Kings |
| FG% | 41.2% | 43.9% |
| 3PT% | 32.4% | 46.2% |
| Turnovers | 16 | 9 |
| Rebounds | 38 | 45 |
| Assists | 19 | 26 |
Game Trends & Strategic Insights
The game had a fast pace early on. The Sacramento Kings took control with quick transition scoring and tight defensive pressure. Their spacing and shot efficiency gave them a strong lead by halftime. The Warriors struggled to answer.
Coach Mike Brown of the Kings rotated his lineup well, keeping players fresh. The Golden State Warriors tried switching defenses but couldn’t stop the hot shooting. The Kings’ energy, especially from players like Keon Ellis, disrupted the Warriors’ offense and helped protect their lead.
Key Takeaways from the Golden State Warriors vs Sacramento Kings Match
One of the biggest takeaways was the complete breakdown of the Golden State Warriors offense. When Stephen Curry is the only one scoring, the team has trouble winning. The Klay Thompson scoreless night was a shock, and it may lead to major questions in the Warriors offseason changes.
On the other side, the Sacramento Kings team performance was elite. Keegan Murray’s three-pointers, Domantas Sabonis’ double-double, and De’Aaron Fox’s performance showed the team is ready for the next level. This game was not just a win; it was a statement.
What’s Next for Both Teams? Upcoming Matchups and Playoff Scenarios
The Sacramento Kings will now face the New Orleans Pelicans in their next NBA Play-In Game. It’s a tough matchup, but their current form gives them hope. A win means they secure a spot in the NBA postseason.
The Golden State Warriors have been eliminated. Their Warriors playoff chances are over. This leads to questions about the future of the core team. Will there be big roster evaluations? Will Stephen Curry have enough help next season? These will be big themes in the offseason.
Next Kings Opponent:
| Matchup | Date | Venue |
| Kings vs Pelicans | April 19, 2024 | Smoothie King Center |
Conclusion
The April 16, 2024 NBA game was a powerful example of how momentum and teamwork matter. The Golden State Warriors vs Sacramento Kings matchup gave us some shocking moments, including Klay Thompson’s scoreless night and Keegan Murray’s breakout performance.
With the Kings advancing and the Warriors eliminated, this game will be remembered for its NBA Playoffs implications. Fans will look back at this as a turning point for both franchises. Whether it’s NBA history 3-point record milestones like Stephen Curry’s 4000th three-pointer on March 13, 2024, or a blowout win like on April 16, the rivalry continues to be one of the most exciting in the league.
FAQs
1. Who is favored to win Warriors vs Kings?
In recent matchups, the Sacramento Kings have been favored due to their strong team performance and depth, especially after their dominant April 16, 2024 win.
2. Who did the 73-9 Warriors lose to?
The 2015–16 Golden State Warriors lost to the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Finals, blowing a 3-1 series lead.
3. Is Draymond Green still on The Warriors?
Yes, Draymond Green is still with the Golden State Warriors and continues to play a key role on defense and leadership.
4. How many points does Stephen Curry average against the Sacramento Kings?
Stephen Curry averages around 26 points per game against the Sacramento Kings over his career.
5. What is Curry’s record vs Kings?
Stephen Curry has a strong career record against the Kings, winning over 80% of his games played against them.
6. How accurate is Stephen Curry?
Stephen Curry is widely regarded as the most accurate 3-point shooter in NBA history, with a career average around 43% from beyond the arc.
