Iman Shumpert Takes On The Sacramento Kings Leadership Role
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You actually didn’t think at the beginning of the season that the Sacramento Kings would be over .500 going into 2019? Yes, the impossible has happened. They are firmly in the playoff race. There’s a lot that has gone into this amazing start. Iman Shumpert’s leadership has been the key.
The Iman Shumpert acquisition has been one of the best moves Vlade Divac made during his current tenure. When Sacramento obtained Shump from Cleveland for George Hill, the thought was he’d be an average addition to a young team. That’s the farthest from the truth you can get.
I’d like to highlight one quote from Shumpert. After the team’s loss on December 30th to the Lakers, where Shumpert shot a horrendous 3 for 12, he took to social media and stated the following.
“That’s on me. I begged the universe for chance after chance and got every opportunity to win that game, just couldn’t throw it in the ocean.”
When does a player ever openly admit to a teams loss? He’s taking the blame for a bad defeat. This isn’t about one person. Although, Shumpert would rather put the blame on him and carry the load of that loss, rather than having his teammates face the gauntlet of the media.
It’s a pretty admirable move by the veteran. The Sacramento Kings are the relatively young roster. Knowing this, Shumpert felt he’d take the burden of the struggles and not hinder the team’s confidence. While the young Kings will still feel a sense of failure after the Lakers loss, Shumpert has proven time and time again this season that he’s got their backs.
Sacramento players and fans look at Shumpert as a leader. His guidance and veteran leadership has paced the Kings all season. The NBA Finals victory has taught him what it takes to be a Champion. He’s passing on that knowledge to the Kings future All-Star’s.
Dave Joerger hasn’t budged in regards to taking Iman Shumpert out of the rotation and starting lineup. That’s the absolute right call. He’s had the biggest influence on the team. Taking the bullet for the loss proves how much of a team guy Shumpert really is.
Daniel is a guru of baseball and basketball prospects. He’s a very experienced Amusement Park traveler as well. Follow him and his hot takes on Insta @dgentleman9288
