Work Pays Off for Piatkowski

Swingman Eric Piatkowski, who sat out seven games because of flu, had 11 points, five rebounds, three assists and two steals in a 100-88 loss at Sacramento Monday night.

Piatkowski, who has averaged only 9.2 minutes this season, played 17 minutes against the Kings.

“I’m working hard in practice, doing a lot on my own,” he said. “I run after practice because I’m trying to get back in shape. . . .

“My shot feels good. I’m hungry for playing time and when you get in there you have to play well if you want playing time.”

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Center Kevin Duckworth, who has been bothered by a sore left heel, was held out of Monday night’s game.

Duckworth said he needed the rest.

“It’s been bothering me for a while,” he said. “I haven’t been getting the job done.”

Does the injury hinder his ability to cut?

“I don’t cut, I move,” Duckworth said. “Little guys make those sharp turns, I move.”