Game time: 4:30 p.m. PDT
Where: Philips Arena, Atlanta, GA.
Broadcast Information: KHTK Sports 1140 (Radio), Comcast SportsNet California (Local Television)
Sacramento Kings Probable Starters (21-40)
PG: Ray McCallum
SG: Ben McLemore
SF: Rudy Gay
PF: Carl Landry
C: DeMarcus Cousins
Atlanta Hawks Probable Starters (49-13)
PG: Jeff Teague
SG: Kyle Korver
SF: DeMarre Carroll
PF: Paul Millsap
C: Al Horford
Three things to ponder
1. Perimeter defense
Sacramento’s defense on the perimeter has been abysmal, and it’s no secret around the league. The Kings see the second-most opponent 3-point attempts per game in the league (24.7), and they face a Hawks club that is second in the NBA in 3-point accuracy and fourth in makes. Nearly every player on Atlanta’s roster is a legitimate downtown threat, so easy looks can’t be afforded.
2. Ball movement
Under George Karl, the Kings have made an emphasis to move the ball more, with mixed results. In nine games under Karl, the team has averaged 21.3 assists and 17.8 turnovers, an increase in both categories. To beat Atlanta, Sacramento needs fluid ball movement to counter their swarming defense, but the Hawks are adept at jumping passing lanes, a large reason why they’re sixth in the NBA in steals.
3. Bench boost
On Saturday, the Kings bench was outscored by the short-handed Heat’s, 59-22. Atlanta’s second unit is a deep blend of explosive guards and veteran forwards, which could make Carl Landry a useful weapon after logging 12 total minutes and two DNP’s over the past four games.
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