The Sacramento Kings traveled the 90 minutes down highway 80 to face off with the Championship Golden State Warriors Friday evening. Missing three of their rotational guards, the Kings fought hard, but couldn't stay with their closest geographical rivals late, falling to the Warriors by a final of 117-106. With the loss, Sacramento finished the preseason 1-5.
1- David Stockton, AAAA player. The Warriors couldn't figure out who the speedy point guard was running circles around them. No, it wasn't Frank Mason, it was former Gonzaga star and son of NBA legend John Stockton, David Stockton. Sacramento inked the undersized guard midweek and he took advantage of his opportunity. Stockton lit the Warriors up for 23 points on 9-of-12 shooting and eight assists in 28 minutes off the Kings' bench.
2- Welcome to the competition Malachi Richardson. The second-year wing out of Syracuse has been the forgotten man in Sacramento. Against the Warriors, he came out confident and firing from all over the floor. Richardson finished the evening with 15 points on 6-for-13 shooting and showed some defensive prowess against Klay Thompson.
3- Who is this Papagiannis guy? After looking completely uncomfortable in limited playing time, Papagiannis looked like someone fed him a Red Bull in pregame. The 7-footer was all over the floor, even banking in a 3-pointer in the first half. He finished the night with 13 points, seven rebounds and a block in 23 minutes of action. He's showing signs of improvement as the preseason comes to a close.
4- An aggressive Skal Labissiere is a good Skal Labissiere. Starting in place of Zach Randolph, the second-year big looked comfortable from the opening tip. If this is the Labissiere that shows up in the regular season, the Kings are going to have quite a few interesting nights. Labissiere posted nine points, eight rebounds and four assists as the Kings kept the Warriors within striking distance for much of the game.
5- There is no quit in Frank Mason. The season is just a few days away and Mason continues to make his case for a spot in the rotation. With George Hill's status in question, Mason has proven that he is ready for game action. Sacramento wanted Mason bad during draft season and now fans are seeing why. He plays with a chip on his shoulder and there hasn't been a moment too big.