Gametime: 7:00 pm PT
Where: Sleep Train Arena, Sacramento, CA.
Broadcast Information: Click here.
For Timberwolves perspective, visit fellow TrueHoop Network affiliate A Wolf Among Wolves.
Sacramento Kings Probable Starters (4-9)
PG: Aaron Brooks
SG: Tyreke Evans
SF: John Salmons
PF: Jason Thompson
C: DeMarcus Cousins
Minnesota Timberwolves Probable Starters (5-7)
PG: Luke Ridnour
SG: Malcolm Lee
SF: Andrei Kirilenko
PF: Kevin Love
C: Nikola Pekovic
Three questions to ponder
1. Will the Kings’ hot shooting continue?
We’ve talked extensively about how the Kings have found their offense following the starting lineup change. In their last three games, they’ve shot 52.8 percent from the field and 47.9 percent from 3-point range. The Wolves have lost five straight games and are allowing their opponents to shoot 47.3 percent from the field in that span. The Kings know they can beat the Wolves; it’s just a matter of whether their offense as well as their defense continue to roll on all cylinders.
2. Can the Kings contain Kevin Love?
The Olympic Gold Medalist was not in the Timberwolves’ lineup when these two teams met in Minnesota’s season opener. Love’s numbers since returning to action from a broken hand would suggest he’s been dominant. In three games, the Wolves power forward has averaged 24.3 points and 14 rebounds per contest. But his shooting percentages are below his career averages. From the field, he’s shooting 40 percent while from beyond the arc, he’s shooting a disappointing 18.8 percent. Jason Thompson has had trouble in the past with stretch fours like Love, but the Kings will have other options in Chuck Hayes and Thomas Robinson to throw at the two-time All-Star as well.
3. Will the Timberwolves’ bench be a factor in this game?
The Wolves bench scored 46 points in their 92-80 season opening victory over the Kings. Reserve J.J. Barea was a huge contributor for Minnesota, scoring 21 points to lead the Timberwolves’ bench mob in that game. The Kings have played solid defense for most of the season. Can they bring it once again against a vulnerable Timberwolves team?
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