Doug Christie sets Kings’ defensive standard ahead of 2026-27 NBA season

Sacramento Kings head coach Doug Christie is entering his second season with a deeper, more versatile roster, and he believes the team’s identity will ultimately be defined by its consistency, competitiveness and defense.

That starts with Ben Simmons, whose addition has Christie particularly excited about what Sacramento can become on the defensive end.

Simmons has been working out with the Kings ahead of training camp, giving Christie an opportunity to see the veteran guard up close. The former All-Star is attempting to return to his previous level after injuries disrupted the last several seasons.

“He looks fantastic,” Christie said of Simmons. “Everything that I’ve seen so far is pulling in the right direction and pushing in the right direction.”

Christie also connected with Simmons’ journey on a personal level, having experienced significant injuries during his own playing career.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – FEBRUARY 13: Ben Simmons #10 of the Brooklyn Nets dribbles during the second half against the Boston Celtics at Barclays Center on February 13, 2024 in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. The Celtics won 118-110. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

“I am humbled to watch because, as an athlete who’s been injured and gone through all of that, I’m super proud of and for him because these things are difficult,” Christie said. “I’m excited for him to get back and love the thing that he’s just about the best in the world at.”

Christie has not determined exactly how Simmons will be utilized, saying training camp and the preseason will help determine those decisions. But he sees plenty of possibilities with a roster that features more length, athleticism and depth.

“When you have a guy that’s that talented, you can start him anywhere. You can sub him for anyone,” Christie said.

Defense remains at the center of Christie’s vision for the Sacramento Kings. He wants Sacramento to compete at a high level on that end while using defensive success to fuel its offense.

“If you’re not letting people score, you’re getting rebounds, you’re getting out and running. All of a sudden, it’s helping your offense,” Christie said.

That philosophy will also apply to Sacramento’s young players. Christie wants players such as Dylan Cardwell, Nique Clifford and Maxime Raynaud to embrace competition every day, particularly defensively.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JULY 15: Darius Acuff Jr. #5 of the Sacramento King poses for a portrait during the 2026 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot at UNLV on July 15, 2026 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)

For rookie Darius Acuff Jr., Christie emphasized the importance of establishing a routine early in his NBA career. The Kings are surrounding the 19-year-old with both internal and external mentors as he adjusts to life in the league.

“Finding a rhythm and a routine,” Christie said. “I think when you are young like that, finding a routine early is paramount.”

Ultimately, Christie wants the Kings to establish a standard that extends beyond wins and losses.

“The consistency of approach, consistency of play, effort, the identity is being defined, connected on defense, aggressive on offense, and relentless in everything that we do,” Christie said. “If we’ve done that, I think that we have been successful.”

With a deeper roster and competition for playing time at virtually every position, Christie expects that standard to begin in training camp.

More Sacramento Kings content from Sactown Sports

• Kings GM Scott Perry details Ben Simmons signing, Sacramento’s new team identity
• Sacramento Kings release 2026-27 training camp roster
• Do the Sacramento Kings face brutal reality ahead of 2026-27 season?
• Scott Perry on Ben Simmons, Darius Acuff and Kings’ Direction
• 5 Reasons Kings Fans Can Be Optimistic This Season

Sacramento Kings Schedule: 2026-27 Preseason

• Monday, October 5th vs. Los Angeles Lakers (7 P.M. PST)
• Thursday, October 8th @ Los Angeles Lakers (7:30 P.M. PST)
• Saturday, October 10th @ Golden State Warriors (5:30 P.M. PST)
• Tuesday, October 13th vs. Portland Trail Blazers (7:00 P.M. PST)
• Friday, October 16th @ San Antonio Spurs (7:00 P.M. PST)

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