Game 34 Preview: Sacramento Kings vs. Orlando Magic

Marcus Thornton and Isaiah Thomas against the Utah Jazz. (Photo: Steven Chea)

Gametime: 7:00 pm PST

Where: Sleep Train Arena, Sacramento, CA

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

Sacramento Kings Projected Starters (11-22)

PG: Isaiah Thomas
SG: Marcus Thornton
SF: Rudy Gay
PF: Jason Thompson
C: DeMarcus Cousins

Orlando Magic Projected Starters (10-25)

PG: Jameer Nelson
SG: Victor Oladipo
SF: Arron Afflalo
PF: Tobias Harris
C: Glen Davis

What to watch

1. Who will guard DeMarcus Cousins?

If starting center Nikola Vucevic can’t go (concussion), the Orlando Magic may be in for a long night.  Cousins is rolling right now and making his pitch to be included on the Western Conference All-Star team.  If he has any chance of getting the nod, he needs to punish teams like the Magic and bring his teammates along for the ride.

2. How will the Kings fair against a three guard set?

Again, if Vucevich can’t go, coach Jacque Vaughn will turn to a starting lineup with three natural guards in Nelson, Oladipo and Afflalo.  Will the Kings force the Magic to adjust to them, or will Orlando be forced to adjust to the Kings?

3. Thomas versus Nelson

This should be a fun game to watch.  Neither Nelson, nor Thomas are known for their defensive prowess, but both guards can really fill it up.  There is a true connection between these two players and a history.  Thomas is on a tear, but can he get over on Nelson?

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