Game 51 Preview: Sacramento Kings at Washington Wizards

John Wall looks to make a move against Aaron Brooks. (Photo: Steven Chea)

Gametime: 3:00 pm PT

Where: Verizon Center, Washington, DC

Broadcast Information: KHTK Sports 1140 (Radio), Comcast SportsNet California (Television)

Sacramento Kings Projected Starters (17-33)

PG: Isaiah Thomas
SG: Ben McLemore
SF: Rudy Gay
PF: Jason Thompson
C: DeMarcus Cousins

Washington Wziards Projected Starters (24-25)

PG: John Wall
SG: Bradley Beal
SF: Trevor Ariza
PF: Nene
C: Marcin Gortat



What to watch

1. Cousins vs. Gortat

Gortat has given Cousins’ fits in the past.  However, this is a new Cousins that we’re seeing this year.  The last time these two matched up was in a meaningless preseason game when Gortat was still a member of the Phoenix Suns.  But the Kings starting center showed flashes of what we’ve come to expect out of him this season, posting 29 points and nine rebounds in just under 30 minutes on Gortat.

2. How many shots does Isaiah Thomas take?

This number will be interesting to watch if Rudy Gay misses another game due to the flu.  Thomas took 23 shots to score 24 points in Friday’s loss to the Celtics.  In order to win, the Kings will need more than Thomas and Cousins taking most of the shots in this game.  Can Thomas find a way to get his teammates involved early then find his shooting stroke later?

3. Can the Kings find someone else to score points?

This question is related to the previous one.  If Gay doesn’t play again, someone else will have to chip in points besides Cousins and Thomas.  It can certainly be a collective effort, but all eyes will be on Jimmer Fredette and Derrick Williams.  Both third -ear players are capable of filling it up when need be, but were no shows in the Kings’ loss to the Celtics.  Williams scored 11 points but took 11 shots to do so while Fredette finished with two points in seven minutes.

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