Three Keys: Phoenix Suns (12-23) at Sacramento Kings (12-20)
By Rafe Wong
The Sacramento Kings ended 2015 on an ugly note. They have the chance tonight to start fresh into the new year against the Phoenix Suns.
Similar to the Kings, the Suns have had a disappointing year compared to their expectations. They were another team that were looking to clinch a playoff berth this year, but considering their 12-23 record so far, they have mightily struggled.
This is another game where the Kings could take advantage of. Not only have Phoenix struggled this season, but they will also play the rest of the way without their star player Eric Bledsoe, as he is reported out for the season with a knee injury. In order for the Kings to gain momentum going forward with a win tonight, they must follow these three keys to the game.
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Keep Turnovers In Check: Turnovers remain to be a major weakness for the Kings. Right now the squad is averaging 16.1 turnovers a game, which is tied for 27th in the league. For the Kings to have a strong performance, ball security must be a main priority.
The Kings have a heavy-power offense already, but it could be more lethal if they didn’t try to execute so many low-percentage passes and commit too many unforced turnovers. So many times they have lost momentum from the result of these careless errors. As long as Sacramento are able to take care of the ball tonight, the offense will run smoothly.
Better Defensive Performance: Another deficiency that the Kings have suffered this season is their defense. Currently, Sacramento is allowing opponents to score 107.3 points a game, which earns them dead last in the league in this category.
It would be huge tonight for the Kings to show some energy on the defensive end. This means being able to stick with opponents, close in on jump shots, and overall just being more aggressive.
Even without Bledsoe, the Suns still have proficient players like Brandon Knight and T.J. Warren that can still contribute to the offense being productive. If the Kings get caught slipping on the defensive end tonight it could cost them dearly at the end of the game.
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Show Effort: The Kings have had some losses recently that have caused their fans to be furious. Mainly the reason for these defeats is because they have shown an alarming lack of effort on the court.
The Kings must show more determination and push compared to their recent outings to achieve a win tonight. Whether it was being tired, lazy, or unmotivated, the Kings cannot afford to play like they have in the last couple of games. If they do, they will suffer the same consequences as they have in recent past.
Final Thoughts: If the Kings are able to take care of the ball, have a good defensive outing, and show some heart on the court tonight they will have a good chance in earning the win.
The Kings are in desperate need for a victory to turn their season around. Presently the team is riding a three-game losing streak, and a win tonight could possibly turn around the ship and their confidence in the right direction going forward for the rest of the year.