Keon Ellis led the Kings with 121 steals this season, nearly double the second-highest on the team, showcasing elite perimeter defense.

Ellis also posted a career-high 63 blocks, trailing only Keegan Murray’s 69, highlighting his surprising rim protection as a shooting guard.

After a 109-98 win vs. Phoenix, Ellis credited his preparation and defensive mindset for his success, calling it his role and focus.

Keegan Murray has guarded players of all sizes, using his strength and versatility to handle mismatches, even against much taller opponents.

The Kings’ overall defense has been average, ranked 22nd in the NBA with a 115.3 defensive rating, but has improved significantly recently.

In the past two weeks, Sacramento has played top-10 level defense, thanks largely to Ellis and Murray's consistent effort and intensity.

Interim coach Doug Christie praised both Keon and Keegan, calling them all-league defenders and examples of the "fun" side of playing defense.

Christie believes adding defenders like Jake LaRavia and rookie Devin Carter creates a strong defensive core that opponents feel physically.