Kings newcomer Duarte details family connection to Domas originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area
Chris Durate and Domantas Sabonis will reunite in Sacramento after the 26-year-old forward was acquired in a trade from the Indiana Pacers on July 6.
Speaking to reporters on Saturday, Duarte shed light on the bond that developed between him and the Kings big man during the 2021-22 NBA season with the Pacers.
“Well, Domas took me under his wing from day one,” Durate said (h/t Deuce & Mo). “When I got to Indiana, he just explained to me… This is what it’s like to be in the NBA. Make sure you do this, make sure you do that.
“So I really appreciate him and a great guy, great person. I’ve met his family. I can sit here and talk about him for hours. So just so you know, we have a good relationship .”
Their close relationship has translated on the pitch. During their time together in Indiana, the duo exhibited great chemistry, showing a deep understanding of each other’s playstyles and tendencies.
“We just have good chemistry, a good connection,” Durate continued. “We both speak Spanish so that always helps. We just had a good connection on the core. I just know how to play with him.”
Duarte and Sabonis have the opportunity to continue building on their previous success. Their familiarity and shared experience should form a solid foundation for the growth of their partnership.
The addition of Durate is another move Sacramento made in an effort to add depth to the team and prove to anyone who doubts that last season’s success was no fluke.
While tweaking the roster is one way to improve, other players like Davion Mitchell are working on their craft to help build a better Kings team for the 2023-24 NBA season.