Maxime Raynaud has had a productive campaign with the Sacramento Kings, and his coach can see the rookie growing each time he steps onto the court.
Raynaud is averaging 9.9 points, 6.7 rebounds and one assist while shooting 55.5% from the field in 47 appearances this season with the Kings. He is third in the rookie class in total rebounds (314) and is tied for the second-most double-doubles (8).
The 42nd overall pick is coming off a historic double-double on Monday, recording 21 points and 19 rebounds in a loss to the New Orleans Pelicans. He tied the Sacramento-era (1985) franchise record for rebounds in a single game by a rookie.
"I think Max is starting to learn the strength, the balance, understanding center of gravity and angles, and different things," coach Doug Christie said. "That is going to be a process that he goes through, but I believe that he is learning that. And understanding that he went through a little lull there, where he is on the scouting report now, so when he is rolling, they're pushing up on him and not letting him catch it in his sweet spot for his little push shot. Understanding how to hit first and then make sure you're boxing out. He has learned quite a bit."
Maxime Raynaud cette nuit 👑
— NBA France (@NBAFRANCE) February 10, 2026
21 POINTS
19 REBONDS
8-14 FG
5-6 FT pic.twitter.com/D7Sv0L5BgJ
Raynaud has filled in as a starter sporadically, averaging 11.7 points, 8.2 rebounds and 1.3 assists in 29 games in that role. He has offered a glimpse of the production he can provide in a large role, with each of his double-doubles coming from the starting lineup.
The 7-footer has had the task of matching up with several big men across the NBA, which serves as a tremendous learning experience for him. He believes he is handling the physicality the league offers better with each appearance.
"Whether it's in the weight room or conditioning, I feel like those are the two main aspects of it," Raynaud said. "And then just being able to compete at a higher level, not giving in when the game is not going your way, and keep fighting on every aspect. That makes it show a little bit more."
With the Kings in last place and on a 13-game losing streak, the team will likely prioritize minutes for Raynaud and the other younger players over the remainder of the season. It figures to be an important stretch for him to showcase himself at a high level.
The group faces the Utah Jazz on Wednesday on the road in its last game before All-Star Weekend. Raynaud and the rest of the team will be looking to go into the break with some positive momentum.
"Try to finish the road trip going into the break with a win in Utah," Raynaud said. "I think that would get our spirit a little higher and send us off in the right way."
This article originally appeared on Rookie Wire: Kings news: Doug Christie details the growth of rookie Maxime Raynaud