Sacramento Kings vs. Charlotte Hornets Game Preview

After coming off a 116-100 victory against the Denver Nuggets, the Kings will be taking the court against the Charlotte Hornets today.

Kings fans finally got a chance to see newcomers Buddy Hield and Tyreke Evans showcase the value they will be adding to the team.

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Hield had 16 points for the night on 60 percent shooting from the field. With this being his first game, he really wanted to get a sense of how he would be fitting in the Kings system.

“It’s really good for guys to help me find my comfort zone on the team. I hope to continue this for a while,” Hield said. “Guys like Ty and DC were trying to find ways to get me open.”

The playmaking ability from Hield should be noted. Check out this sick crossover and finish:

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Hield was also very aggressive defensively. He had key defensive moments against the Nuggets guards, which is a positive sign moving forward.

Willy Cauley-Stein also had one of the best games of his career Thursday night. He went to the free throw line just once, but managed to score 29 points on 64 percent shooting from the field.

“As a team we really wanted that win. We are trying to make that eighth spot,” Cauley-Stein said. “We really want to bring that same intensity throughout the whole game.”

The second year pro also feels like he is now finally free. With DeMarcus Cousins being traded to New Orleans, Cauley-Stein now has his chance to become the go-to center for the Kings.

The Charlotte Hornets are currently sitting at the 11th seed out in Eastern Conference. Just like the Kings, they are also looking to make a late push to get to that eighth seed.

The Hornets are currently on a five game losing skid with losses against the Rockets, Clippers, 76ers, Raptors, and most recently, the Pistons.

Don Weir’s Reno Dodge Keys to the Game:

1: The Kemba Effect; Must contain him

2: Get back in transition defense

3: Continue to play selfless basketball

Tipoff is a 2 p.m.

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