Fans Demand More Playing Time for Keon Ellis Amid Kings’ Struggles

Sacramento, CA — Frustrated fans at Golden 1 Center voiced their support for guard Keon Ellis during the Sacramento Kings’ latest loss. The team fell 144-117 to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Sunday afternoon, marking their worst ten-game start since the 2017-18 season.

As the game wore on, chants of “We want Keon” erupted from the crowd, expressing displeasure over Ellis’ limited playing time. For the second consecutive game, he remained on the bench until the outcome was out of reach.

Ellis, who has been a standout defender, ranked fifth in the NBA last season for total steals. Yet, he has averaged only 18.0 minutes this season as he competes for time against veterans like Dennis Schroder, Zach LaVine, Russell Westbrook, and Malik Monk.

Coach Doug Christie acknowledged the challenge of managing a crowded backcourt. “There’s a logjam at that position,” Christie said. “Night to night it could be different, but Keon’s a pro, and I know he’ll be ready.”

The Kings’ recent woes are partly due to the absence of key players like Keegan Murray and Domantas Sabonis, leaving Sacramento struggling with both defense and offense. “We need to find the correct rotation,” Christie noted, emphasizing the importance of a defensive identity.

Ellis, who will become an unrestricted free agent at the season’s end, remains positive despite the challenges. “I control what I can control,” he stated after the game. With fans clamoring for his presence, conversations about potential rotations and lineup changes are expected as the season progresses.