Kings- Jazz: Deron Williams Comes Up Big In The Clutch, Jazz Win 97-94

Tonight the Sacramento Kings (5-14) hosted the Utah Jazz (11-7).

Sacramento came in having lost six straight home games, just two shy of the franchise record.

The Jazz were led by Deron Williams, recently returned from injury.

For the Kings, Kevin Martin returned after missing the last 12 games with an ankle injury. He came off the bench in his first game back.

Spencer Hawes started in place of the demoted Mikki Moore. John Salmons missed the game with an injury and was replaced by Fransisco Garcia.

The Jazz were playing without Carlos Boozer, Matt Harpring and Kirilenko.

Kevin Martin came into the game midway through the first quarter. He quickly made his first two shots and drew a charge. His impact was immediate.

At the end of the first quarter the Kings led 24-20.

The Jazz went on an 11 point run to get back in the game. They led 39-38 at the half.

Kyle Korver had five quick points off the bench. Brad Miller led the Kings with ten points at the half.

The Kings battled in the third quarter. The score was 66-64 going into the fourth quarter.

Deron Williams took over down the stretch. In the final two minutes he had two assists and two scores. The Kings failed to execute when they needed to and the Jazz won 97-94.

The Kings failed to capitalize on the Jazz’ season high 25 turnovers.

Ronnie Brewer led the Jazz with 14 points. Kevin Martin led the Kings with 14 points in his return.

The Kings fall to 5-15 on the season. They will next host the Denver Nuggets this Saturday.