Five things to watch when the Kings hit the Code Sports NBL Blitz

‍Pre-season results never tell the whole story. The Blitz will still provide the first real look at how Sydney’s new pieces fit together.

1. A new shape in the frontcourt ‍

Xavier Cooks expects Andrew Carr’s intelligence and versatility to create positional problems, while Harry Wessels gives Sydney a physical target, screen-setter and rebounder inside. Jason Spurgin called the pair “two different options and two different ways we can play”.

Carr and Wessels give Sydney a different combination of mobility, shooting and size. Watch how Goorjian uses them alongside Cooks and Spurgin.

2. The backcourt rotation

Jayden Stone and Will Johnston join an experienced group led by Dellavedova. The Blitz will offer an early view of who handles the ball, who plays off it and which combinations can apply pressure defensively.

3. The next step for returning Kings

Stone wants the Blitz to show that he belongs at this level. “I’m going in with confidence and grateful to be out there,” he said. “I worked my way up at Missouri and I’ll do the same here.”

Makuach Maluach, Tyler Robertson and Jason Spurgin know the system. Pre-season gives each of them an opportunity to claim a larger role within it.

4. How quickly the defence connects

New players can learn offensive sets. Team defence requires trust, timing and communication. Goorjian will be watching the possessions away from the ball as closely as anything in the box score.

5. The standard after a championship

The Kings are not trying to peak in September, but the habits should already be visible: transition effort, ball security, rebounding and response to adversity.

Sydney Kings v SE Melbourne Phoenix – Wednesday, September 2, 2026 – 8:00pm AEST
New Zealand Breakers v Sydney Kings – Friday, September 4, 2026 – 5:30pm AEST

Watch every game live on ESPN via Disney+, Kayo Sports and 9Now.