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Game Preview: Kings (0-0) vs. Warriors (0-0)

By Tony Xypteras

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Welcome back! I’m excited.

The Kings start their 2014-2015 season at home against the slightly injured, but still-dangerous Golden State Warriors tonight at 7:00 PM PT. Lets talk about it, shall we?

Keys to the Game:

1. Perimeter Defense: The Warriors have one of, if not the best guard combination in the entire league. Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson. The Splash Brothers. You’ve heard of them. Darren Collison and Ben McLemore are going to have a rough night defensively. They won’t stop Curry or Thompson, but if they can offer some resistance the Kings should be able to keep it competitive.

2. Sacramento Proud: Having home court advantage on opening night has to count for something. I am expecting a good basketball atmosphere at Sleep Train Arena tonight, and the Kings always play better at home.

3. Focus: Andrew Bogut is the kryptonite of focus. He’s probably the best goon in the NBA right now. I’m only half joking. Bogut used to be an effective offensive player, but age and injuries has slowed him down considerably. He’s still a very good (and slightly dirty) defender. He’s going to try to bring out the worst in DeMarcus Cousins, as he should. This is an excellent first test for DeMarcus. Stay focused, Boogie.

4. Health: David Lee is doubtful with a hamstring injury, and Shaun Livingston has already been ruled out for tonight’s game. The Kings will take any help they can get.

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    • The Line:

    The Warriors are 5-point favorites tonight. If I were a betting man, I’d take Sacramento to win against the spread. I don’t feel great about it.

    Unlikely Prediction:

    Ray McCallum hasn’t been a regular part of the rotation throughout the preseason, but Michael Malone asks him defend Stephen Curry at some point tonight. Despite his uneventful preseason, McCallum is the Kings best perimeter defender.

    Final Thoughts:

    The Kings aren’t supposed to win this one. Even without Lee and Livingston, the Warriors have a better team. And despite all that, I think the Kings have enough going for them (home court, opening night, rivalry game, etc.) that they should be able to keep it close. Check back in after the game for our recap.

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