In an otherwise bleak season for the Sacramento Kings, Dylan Cardwell has been a bright spot. His impressive gameplay, particularly on defense, and infectious energy earned him a roster spot. Unfortunately, his 13-game block streak came to an end against the Jazz last night.

Cardwell wasn’t selected during the 2025 NBA Draft, leaving him un-rostered going into the 2025-2026 season. The Kings made the prescient call to sign him to a two-way contract with the intention of him primarily playing in the G League. Sacramento’s endless injuries changed that.

Like fellow rookies Maxime Raynaud and Nique Clifford, Cardwell these injury absences gave him a chance to step in the spotlight and deliver. Wow, did he deliver. Cardwell quickly became the defensive anchor the team had been lacking, not to mention a devastating lob threat on offense.

But his biggest claim to fame has been blocking and rebounding. Dylan is one of the top rookies in both categories, particularly when it comes to offensive rebounding. He’s become a key player on offense and defense, which makes it difficult for the Kings when he’s off his game.

Cardwell doesn’t bring his usual defensive heat for the Kings

For the first time in 13 games, Cardwell did not register at least one block. This was in the blowout against the Jazz, who fully and completely dominated the Kings last night. Keeping in mind that his season average is 1.5 blocks per game, it was odd to see Cardwell with a block or two.

The last time Cardwell didn’t pick up at least one block was actually in the last game of the Kings’ win streak, which seems like a lifetime ago at this point. It was a win over the Wizards, with Cardwell registering five points, nine rebounds, and one assist, all in 19 minutes on the court.

While his blocking streak ended against the Jazz, he still had six points, 10 rebounds, three assists, and one steal. Even without a block, Cardwell at least remained productive, and contributed on both ends of the court. Despite the loss, his overall defensive effort was still felt.

This is likely just a blip on the season for Dylan Cardwell, who remains a reliable defensive presence and easily the best shot blocker on the Kings. He has recorded as many as five blocks in one game this season, so it’s quite likely that his totals will continue to rise as he continues to find his rhythm.