Tue Jan 13 05:30:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Cardwell Flirts with Double-Double as Kings Defeat Rockets Amidst Frontcourt Competition
The Story:
Dylan Cardwell, the Sacramento Kings rookie, nearly achieved his first career double-double in Sunday’s 111-98 victory over the Houston Rockets. Despite playing 19 minutes off the bench, Cardwell contributed nine points and 11 rebounds. The Kings’ frontcourt situation remains fluid with Domantas Sabonis sidelined due to a knee injury. This opens up opportunities for Cardwell, but he faces competition from Precious Achiuwa and Drew Eubanks, who are vying for playing time behind fellow rookie Maxime Raynaud.
Key Points:
- The Sacramento Kings defeated the Houston Rockets 111-98 on Sunday.
- Dylan Cardwell recorded nine points, 11 rebounds, and one assist in 19 minutes.
- Cardwell shot 4-11 from the field and 1-4 from the free-throw line.
- Domantas Sabonis is currently out with a knee injury.
- Cardwell faces competition from Precious Achiuwa and Drew Eubanks for playing time behind Maxime Raynaud.
Key Takeaways:
- Dylan Cardwell is demonstrating potential as a valuable contributor off the bench for the Kings.
- Sabonis’s injury creates opportunities for other big men on the roster to prove their worth.
- The Kings’ frontcourt is competitive, with multiple players vying for limited minutes.
- Maxime Raynaud’s consistent performance appears to have solidified his role in the rotation.
First Piper 