The Sacramento Kings leaned on a late-game surge from Malik Monk to outlast the Brooklyn Nets 126–122 on Sunday night.
Monk delivered a clutch performance, scoring 10 of his game-high 32 points in the final five minutes. He knocked down seven 3-pointers and was perfect from the free-throw line (9-for-9), helping Sacramento snap a two-game losing streak.
Rookie Devin Carter added 16 points and five rebounds, but his biggest contribution came in the closing seconds. After Brooklyn cut the deficit to one possession, Carter calmly sank two free throws with 6.6 seconds remaining to seal the win.
The Nets had one last chance, but a costly mistake from Nolan Traore — stepping out of bounds on the final possession — ended their hopes. The play was reviewed and upheld, cementing Brooklyn’s seventh straight loss.
Sacramento got strong production across the board. Rookie Maxime Raynaud recorded his 16th double-double with 22 points and 10 rebounds, while Precious Achiuwa added 14 points and 15 boards. DeMar DeRozan chipped in 10 points and eight assists in a steady playmaking role.
Brooklyn was paced by Ben Saraf with 22 points, while Ziaire Williams scored 18 and Traore finished with 17.
The Kings led 108–105 before Monk took over, drilling a pair of 3-pointers and converting key free throws down the stretch. His late free throws pushed Sacramento ahead 123–120, and after Traore answered with two of his own, Carter delivered the final blow from the line.
The win also marked Sacramento’s first home victory over Brooklyn since December 11, 2023. Among those in attendance was John Calipari, Monk’s former coach at Kentucky, as his Arkansas Razorbacks men's basketball prepare for a Sweet 16 matchup next week.
Up next: The Nets continue their road trip against the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday, while the Kings host the Charlotte Hornets on Tuesday.
