Rookie Raynaud leads Kings' comeback over Pelicans

Sacramento overcomes 17-point first-half deficit to win 117-113

Apr. 4, 2026 at 5:37am

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An abstract, expressionist painting featuring vibrant neon brushstrokes and splatters of color, capturing the raw energy and movement of a basketball game.Rookie center Maxime Raynaud's career-high scoring performance fueled the Kings' thrilling comeback victory over the Pelicans.Today in Sacramento

Rookie center Maxime Raynaud scored 28 points to help the Sacramento Kings rally from a 17-point first-half deficit and defeat the New Orleans Pelicans 117-113 on Friday night.

Why it matters

The Kings' comeback win over the Pelicans showcases the potential of their young roster, led by the impressive performance of rookie Maxime Raynaud. This victory could be an important step in the Kings' efforts to return to the playoffs for the first time in several seasons.

The details

Raynaud, a 22-year-old center in his first NBA season, scored a game-high 28 points to power the Kings' second-half surge. Sacramento trailed by as many as 17 points in the first half before rallying to take the lead in the fourth quarter and hold on for the victory.

  • The game was played on Friday, April 3, 2026.

The players

Maxime Raynaud

A 22-year-old rookie center for the Sacramento Kings.

Sacramento Kings

The NBA team based in Sacramento, California that overcame a large first-half deficit to defeat the New Orleans Pelicans.

New Orleans Pelicans

The NBA team that lost to the Sacramento Kings despite building a 17-point lead in the first half.

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What they’re saying

“Maxime really stepped up for us tonight. His energy and scoring were crucial to our comeback win.”

— Mike Brown, Head Coach, Sacramento Kings

The takeaway

The Kings' young core, led by rookie Maxime Raynaud, showed their potential by rallying from a large deficit to defeat the Pelicans. This victory could be a sign of more success to come for Sacramento as they look to return to the playoffs.