PHOTO CREDIT: Former Kings coach Paul Westphal answers questions about center DeMarcus Cousins before Sunday night's game between the Sacramento Kings and the New Orleans Hornets at Power Balance Pavilion. José Luis Villegas, Sacramento Bee.
Kings coach Paul Westphal was fired earlier this morning by basketball president Geoff Petrie. Assistant Keith Smart will coach tonight's home game against the Milwaukee Bucks.
LIVE CHAT REPLAY: Ailene Voisin takes reader questions on the Westphal firing
In two-plus seasons, Westphal compiled a 51-120 record, winning 25 and 24 games in the previous two seasons. The Kings take a 2-5 record into tonight's game at Power Balance Pavilion.
"I want to thank Paul for all his efforts on behalf of the Kings," Petrie said in a statement. "Unfortunately, the overall performance level of the team did not approach what we felt was reasonable to expect. I wish h im the best in his future endeavors."
PHOTO GALLERY: Paul Westphal out as Kings head coach
After beating the Lakers in the home opener, the Kings suffered brusing losses against Portland, Chicago, New York, Memphis and Denver last night. The only other victory came against the injury-depleted New Orleans Hornets.
Westphal previously coached the Phoenix Suns and Seattle Sonics.








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