Early Predictions On The Sacramento Kings Starting Five

Jan 3, 2015; Denver, CO, USA; Memphis Grizzlies center

(41) during the game against the Denver Nuggets at Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports

Kosta Koufos (Power Forward):

To me there are two options at this spot: Kosta Koufos and rookie Willie Cauley-Stein. To me, both fit the role well based on their games. Both have proven or have shown the potential to be efficient defenders, and also to be the solution to a rim-protector that the Kings have been needing for a long time.

Even though I see Cauley-Stein having a higher ceiling going forward, I think Koufos should start right now. Currently, I just think Koufos is better. I think he is an overall better defender and that he is more polished offensively than Cauley-Stein at this moment. Also, the fact that he’s had experience starting for successful teams in the past is a big factor as well (example 2012-13 Denver Nuggets).

Cauley-Stein does has a realistic chance to take over the starting job as the season progresses (maybe even in preseason), but because he is a rookie there is a lot more uncertainty right now from him than in Koufos. With Koufos, you already know what you got. You have a big man who is limited offensively (but not a liability), but he makes up for it with his stout defense. The Kings have had their struggles defensively in recent history, and with Koufos starting I think will help fix it.

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