Zach LaVine Blames Poor 3-Point Shooting for Kings’ Loss to Clippers

The Sacramento Kings entered the 2025-26 season amid a “preseason black hole” and the loss of Ben Simmons to an ACL injury during practice. After a disappointing opening-night defeat to the Los Angeles Clippers, the team’s frustrations intensified, with fans joking that the franchise had become the “Kangz.”

Newsweek

According to the Newsweek report, Sacramento ranked last in the league, averaging 10.3 made three-pointers per game while shooting 34 % on 30.2 attempts. In the loss to the Clippers, the Kings managed 8-of-28 from beyond the arc, underscoring the low volume and efficiency that have plagued the squad.

Newsweek

Guard Zach LaVine, speaking to Sactown 1140’s Brendan Nunes, linked the defeat directly to the team’s inability to generate quality three-point shots. He noted that “the right people got to shoot them” but emphasized that many teammates are not natural off-the-dribble shooters, limiting the offense’s versatility. LaVine added that without “downhill penetration” and players willing to create their own shots, the Kings cannot produce the open looks needed for consistent three-point success. He warned that the roster contains only a few capable off-the-dribble three-point shooters, a shortage that hampers the team’s overall scoring potential.

Newsweek

• “The right people got to shoot them,” — Zach LaVine

Newsweek

• “You need to have downhill penetration,” — Zach LaVine

Newsweek

The Kings are slated to face the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday, a matchup that LaVine suggests will test whether the team can adjust its shooting approach and improve its offensive flow.

Newsweek