NBA Notes: Kings, DeMar DeRozan, Warriors, Draymond Green, Clippers

Kings

DeMar DeRozan may have left the Bulls in the rearview mirror, but he certainly didn’t forget how to make an impact on the big stage. In his return to Chicago on Sunday, DeRozan hit nine of his 21 points in the final 12 minutes to lead the Kings to a five-point victory.

It was a performance that had all the familiar traits of a DeRozan fourth-quarter takeover, but this time it was Sacramento reaping the benefits.

The crowd at the United Center gave him a warm reception, and DeRozan expressed his gratitude for his time with the Bulls, noting how he tried to “embody the culture of Chicago” during his three years there.

Even as he knocked down clutch shots, he made sure to remind the Bulls’ bench with a few words and a stare — nothing personal, just a competitive edge.

Sacramento is rolling right now, and Doug Christie’s simplified offensive system continues to be a big reason why.

With the Kings notching their seventh straight win on Sunday, Domantas Sabonis broke down the team’s streamlined approach: “One for DeMar, one for Foxy (De’Aaron Fox), and one for me. He’s trusting his main guys to create the advantage, and then everyone plays off that.”

With fewer turnovers and more efficient offense, it’s clear that Christie has his squad humming, and they’re finding success without overcomplicating things.

Warriors

The Draymond Green we’re seeing this season is a more controlled version than the one who let his fiery passion get the best of him in years past. The key difference? Green sought counseling during last season’s indefinite suspension, a move that’s paid off both on and off the court.

According to ESPN’s Ohm Youngmisuk, Green has learned to better manage his anger, and he’s a much more composed figure this year.

It hasn’t been easy for Green, whose game thrives on the edge of intensity and emotion.

Warriors coach Steve Kerr noted how Green’s passion can sometimes tip into anger, but Green’s personal growth — especially when it comes to his family — has played a big role in his evolution.

“He loves his kids. He recognized last year how much his actions impacted his young kids,” Kerr explained. “He doesn’t want his kids seeing him in that light.”

As Green continues to find that balance between his competitive fire and emotional control, it’s clear that his presence is more stable, and that’s a big win for Golden State.

Clippers

The Clippers’ focus has been tested, and not just because of their recent struggles on the court. The devastating wildfires in Los Angeles and the surrounding areas hit too close to home for many players and coaches, forcing them to deal with the personal toll before returning to basketball.

But as veteran Nicolas Batum pointed out, they’re professionals, and they have to push forward.

“We have a game to play,” Batum said. “We have to win so we have to get back to it.”

The Clippers are in a tough stretch, having lost four of their last five having lost four of five entering Monday’s home game against Miami.