74 Shots in Three Games: Darius Acuff Offers Rookies an Impressive First Impression in the NBA
A high-volume start draws scrutiny
Acuff entered the league as a divisive prospect and quickly became a focus of debate. The 6-foot-1 guard was selected seventh overall by Sacramento and has averaged more than 25 points per game, with a 50% true shooting percentage.
Criticism has centered on his shot selection and involvement of teammates. Draymond Green challenged Acuff at half court over those issues, while Jeff Teague criticized a game in which Acuff went five for 24.
Numbers and pressure in Sacramento
Acuff attempted 74 shots in his first three career games, the most by any player over that span in NBA history. His average seconds per touch is also higher than Jalen Brunson’s, while Acuff is shooting 40% from the field and 31% from three-point range.
The Kings have lost their first six games, and the article describes them as statistically among the worst teams in NBA history so far. Reports also say Domantas Sabonis wants out of Sacramento, with concerns tied to the new offense built around Acuff.
A difficult role, a big upside
The article argues that calling Acuff’s production empty statistics or stat padding overlooks Sacramento’s situation. It describes the Kings’ roster as a losing environment whose existing pieces do not necessarily fit, with the team relying on Acuff as its full-time on-ball creator.
Acuff is described as a highly talented guard prospect and an elite shotmaker. The Kings may need to build a strong defensive structure around him to succeed in the postseason, the article says, comparing the early criticism to what LaMelo Ball faced before changing the narrative last season.
Key points
- Acuff was selected seventh overall by the Kings.
- He has averaged more than 25 points per game amid criticism of his shot selection.
- His 74 attempts in his first three games set an NBA career-start record.
- Sacramento has lost its first six games, while reports cite Sabonis’ concerns about the new offense.