In a season filled with inconsistency and growing pains, one name has stood above the rest for the Sacramento Kings: Maxime Raynaud.
According to NBC Sports California analyst Kayte Christensen, the rookie center has been the clear highlight of the year — especially considering expectations entering the season.
Christensen joined Sactown Sports’ The Carmichael Dave Show with Jason Ross to share her thoughts on Raynaud, the 42nd pick from last summer’s NBA Draft, who continues to impress as the season winds down.
“Yeah, no, I think that Max probably is the highlight, right? Just based on expectations,” Christensen said on Sactown Sports. “My expectation was that he would get some time. I didn’t think he would really get a lot of time, and certainly not be a featured part of it.”
Instead, Raynaud has done far more than simply contribute. The second-round pick has logged heavy minutes, started games, and consistently produced against top competition.
More on Kings rookie Maxime Raynaud
Christensen emphasized that his growth isn’t empty production — it’s happening against legitimate NBA talent.
“He’s played over 60 games at this point… and he started over 40 games. That’s meaningful,” she explained. “His production is against the best in the league at his position, and he’s been able to maintain and continue to build and grow on that.”
Maxime Raynaud, who scored a career-high 32 points during Tuesday’s matchup against Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs, is averaging 11.4 points and 7.3 rebounds per game on 56 percent shooting from the field. The French product also leads the rookie class in double-doubles (15).
Christensen went a step further, making it clear she believes this is sustainable.
“I am not operating under an illusion that it is temporary. I think this is legit.”
A major factor in Maxime Raynaud’s rapid development has been his on-court connection with veteran guard Russell Westbrook. The former MVP has taken on a leadership role, helping elevate the rookie’s game — particularly in the two-man action.
“They have certainly developed a chemistry together,” Christensen said. “Russ is really trying to feature him and grow him, and it benefits Russ’s game as well.”
The numbers back it up. When Westbrook is on the floor, Raynaud’s scoring and efficiency spike. When he’s out, there’s a noticeable drop-off — highlighting just how important that relationship has been.
(Photo by Tyler Kaufman/Getty Images)
Still, Christensen believes the impact extends beyond a single player.
“A lot of starting-caliber point guards are going to be able to run a two-man game,” she said. “But it has to be someone who is really looking to play-make and run offense — not just score.”
Check out the full interview with NBC Sports California‘s Kayte Christensen by scrolling to the top of the page or by clicking here.
Listen to The Carmichael Dave Show with Jason Ross from 6 – 10 a.m. PST, Monday through Friday, on Sactown Sports 1140.
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When is the next Sacramento Kings game?
The Sacramento Kings will continue a three-game homestand on Thursday night when they face the Philadelphia 76ers. at Golden 1 Center.
Philadelphia claimed the lone regular-season matchup between these two teams on January 29th, winning by a final of 113-111 at Xfinity Mobile Arena.
Be sure to catch all of the Sacramento Kings vs. Philadelphia 76ers action right here on Sactown Sports 1140 AM, with pregame coverage beginning at 5:30 PM PT on Game Night before a 7:00 pm PT tip-off from downtown Sacramento.
Upcoming Sacramento Kings schedule for the 2025-26 season
Thursday, March 19th vs. Philadelphia 76ers – 7:00 PM PT
Sunday, March 22nd vs. Brooklyn Nets – 3:00 PM PT
Tuesday, March 24th – @ Charlotte Hornets – 4:00 PM PT
Thursday, March 26th – @ Orlando Magic – 4:00 PM PT
Saturday, March 28th – @ Brooklyn Nets – 4:00 PM PT
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