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Preview: Kings (20-36) vs. Blazers (38-19)

Though the Kings were without their All-Star center on Friday night, Rudy Gay, Ben McLemore and Ray McCallum have continued to play at a high level, combining for 57 points against the defending NBA champs.

“We ran better, we ran more often,” said head coach George Karl following the loss, though he added that the team struggled to complete plays throughout the game, ultimately deciding the outcome.

Gay has averaged 32 points in the last four meetings with Portland and tallied 40 in Sacramento's 103-94 home win over the Trail Blazers on Oct. 31.

  • Today represents a rubber match between Portland and Sacramento, as both teams have won their respective home game in the series.
  • DeMarcus Cousins remains listed as doubtful on the team’s injury report after missing Friday’s contest with San Antonio due to an ankle sprain.
  • Ben Mclemore and Ray McCallum both had notable performances on Friday night in Sacramento, scoring in double figures.
  • The Kings kick off an eight-game road trip this week beginning in New York, the longest since the franchise moved to Sacramento in 1985.
  • Aldridge scored 22 in a 103-94 loss at Sacramento on Oct. 31, but he finished with just 10 in 14 minutes before leaving the January win with a left thumb injury.

Projected Starters

Broadcasts: TV – CSNCA
Comcast – 34/721
Dish – 451/9539
Hopper – 412-39
DirecTV – 698-1
AT&T – 768/1768
Radio – KHTK Sports 1140 AM

Pace & Play

While the Kings were unable to defeat San Antonio on Friday night, Coach Karl noted, “Smart ball beats all.” Sacramento will not only need to maintain their defensive intensity, but continue to make smart decisions on offense.

In addition to picking up the pace of the game, the Kings will need to value the ball in the second half of the game. “We can’t give up extra possessions,” said Karl on Friday night.

Injury Update:

Kings:

  • DeMarcus Cousins (Left Ankle Sprain & Left Hip Contusion) is out.
  • Darren Collison (Right Hip Flexor Sprain) is out.
  • Eric Moreland (Left Shoulder Labral Tear) is out.

Blazers:

  • Joel Freeland (Right Shoulder Strain) is out.