Sacramento Kings rookie Maxime Raynaud showcased his potential on Friday against the Utah Jazz, and the Frenchman earned some praise from coach Doug Christie afterward.
Raynaud produced 19 points, four rebounds and one blocked shot in the 129-118 loss at the Delta Center. He finished by shooting 7-of-11 from the field, including 1-of-2 from 3-point range, in 21 minutes off the bench as the Kings dropped to 5-15.
The 42nd pick did the majority of his work in the fourth quarter with the Kings down by double digits, recording 16 points in the period. He worked primarily in the paint, serving as a tremendous outlet from the dunker spot while also cleaning up the glass.
“I really love what I’m seeing from him on both ends of the floor: The ability to rebound, try to protect the rim,” Christie said. “He is going to get strong and understand leverage and all of those things, but a really good outing for him tonight.”
CAREER-HIGH pour Maxime Raynaud ! 🇫🇷 👑
19 POINTS (16 dans le 4ème)
7/11 au tir
4 REBONDS
1 BLOCKMalgré une lourde défaite, encourageant pour le frenchie des @SacramentoKingspic.twitter.com/BtXkVhU4mK
— NBA France (@NBAFRANCE) November 29, 2025
Raynaud is averaging 5.9 points and 3.3 rebounds on 48.3% shooting from the field in 12 appearances with the Kings. He has scored in double figures twice, including a 12-point outing on Nov. 20 in a loss to the Memphis Grizzlies.
The 7-footer has played sporadically to begin the season, seeing mostly only fourth-quarter minutes in lopsided outcomes. However, he has flashed his versatility and potential, thanks to his size, athleticism and ability to space the floor.
Despite playing minimal minutes, Raynaud has impressed in a limited sample size. The team is excited about his potential and believes he has a bright future ahead.
“There is a poise about Max that belies his age,” Christie said. “He is a young player, but even when he makes mistakes, a lot of times, he will come over and talk to me. There is not a panic in him, and I really like that. He is a great communicator on the floor and going forward, one of our pieces for sure.”
This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Kings news: Doug Christie reveals what he likes about Maxime Raynaud
