Sabonis Records 46th Double-Double as Kings Erase 20-Point Deficit to Defeat Pelicans 123-118

Domantas Sabonis continued his historic season with 27 points and 16 rebounds, leading the Sacramento Kings to a dramatic 123-118 comeback victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Monday night. The performance marked Sabonis's NBA-leading 46th double-double of the 2025-26 season, extending his remarkable consistency as one of the league's most productive big men. The Kings found themselves in a deep hole, trailing by 20 points during the game before mounting an impressive comeback. Sacramento's resilience and offensive execution in the second half overwhelmed a Pelicans team that couldn't maintain its early momentum. The Kings' ability to chip away at the deficit showcased their mental toughness and depth, with multiple players contributing to the scoring surge that erased New Orleans' advantage. Sabonis dominated the paint on both ends of the floor, using his size and positioning to secure rebounds and create second-chance opportunities for Sacramento. His passing ability also kept the Pelicans' defense off balance, as he consistently found open teammates when New Orleans sent double teams. The Lithuanian center's basketball IQ and versatility make him one of the most difficult players to defend in the modern NBA. The Pelicans' inability to close out the game despite their substantial lead raises questions about their execution in crucial moments. New Orleans showed offensive firepower early but struggled to maintain defensive intensity as Sacramento's offense found its rhythm. The loss represents a missed opportunity for the Pelicans to gain ground in the competitive Western Conference playoff race. Sacramento's supporting cast stepped up during the comeback, with timely three-point shooting and defensive stops fueling the rally. The Kings' ball movement improved dramatically in the second half, leading to high-percentage shots and forcing New Orleans into difficult defensive rotations. Sacramento's depth proved crucial as fresh legs helped maintain the pressure on a tiring Pelicans squad. Sabonis's 46 double-doubles through this point in the season puts him on pace to challenge historical single-season records for the statistical achievement. His consistency night after night provides Sacramento with a reliable foundation, and his ability to impact winning while filling the stat sheet makes him an early candidate for All-NBA honors. The victory keeps the Kings in contention in the Western Conference and demonstrates their ability to win games even when trailing significantly.