Game time: 7:30 p.m. PDT
Where: Sleep Train Arena, Sacramento, CA.
Broadcast Information: KHTK Sports 1140 (Radio), Comcast SportsNet California (Local Television), ESPN
Sacramento Kings Probable Starters (11-13)
PG: Darren Collison
SG: Ben McLemore
SF: Rudy Gay
PF: Reggie Evans
C: Jason Thompson
Oklahoma City Thunder Probable Starters (11-13)
PG: Russell Westbrook
SG: Andre Roberson
SF: Kevin Durant
PF: Serge Ibaka
C: Steven Adams
Three things to ponder
1. The hangover
The Kings fired head coach Michael Malone on Sunday night, which blindsided many, including his players. Sacramento’s roster was vocally supportive of Malone, so their reaction to the situation may be laid out live on national television.
2. The pace
A big factor why Malone was canned was due to his offensive philosophy. The Ex-King made a living out of halfcourt sets, while the front office prefers an up-tempo style. Interim head coach Tyrone Corbin is apparently willing to step on the gas, so the Kings will try to keep pace with the Thunder (ninth in pace factor last season according to Hollinger Stats).
3. Defense (if at all)
Malone preached defense as a No. 1 priority. With him out of the picture, priorities may change. In Corbin’s last season as Utah Jazz head coach, his club finished dead last in opponent field goal percentage (47.3). Where the defense goes, so does Sacramento’s success.
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