Sacramento Kings at Memphis Grizzlies game 45 preview: Z-Bo returns
By Tyler Watts
The Sacramento Kings travel to Memphis for Zach Randolph’s return to face his former Grizzlies. This article previews the matchup.
The Sacramento Kings begin their six-game road trip this evening as they travel to Tennessee to face the Memphis Grizzlies. The two teams meet for the second of three times tonight. In their previous meeting, the Grizzlies rolled in Sacramento and defeated the Kings 114-96 on New Year’s Eve. Below is a highlight video of that game.
Today, we examine the top storyline of tonight’s game and some final thoughts about the Jan. 19 game between the Kings and Grizzlies.
Returners
The headline snatcher will be Zach Randolph playing in Memphis for the first time since leaving the Grizzlies in the offseason. Z-Bo played eight seasons in Memphis including two All-Star appearances and endearing himself to the home fans with his grit and grind play. Coach Joerger led the Grizzlies before heading to Sacramento, and he figures to want to Randolph involved early and often tonight.
Related Story: Kings rumors: Finding Zach Randolph a contender
Z-Bo is not the only King returning to Memphis, though. Vince Carter spent the last three seasons playing for the Grizzlies. Carter’s return won’t be in the spotlight, but I would not be surprised to see him take the court after resting the last two games. Vinsanity could steal the show with a vintage performance, so keep an eye on the 41-year-old this evening.
Two Grizzlies are also facing their most recent team. Tyreke Evans and Ben McLemore both finished last season in Sacramento. Evans is in the midst a monster season that is his best since his rookie year playing for the Kings. Expect a heavy dose of him being a thorn in Sacramento’s side on Jan. 19.
Final thoughts
The Kings are in the midst of a rough patch coming into tonight’s game. They are riding a six-game losing streak and have yet to win in 2018. Hopefully, Sacramento can turn their fortunes around against the injury-plagued Grizzlies.
Monitor the status of Skal Labissiere before tipoff. He is questionable with a left shoulder strain after missing Wednesday’s game against the Jazz. The Kings are also without Frank Mason and Harry Giles this evening. Please tune in and enjoy the contest.
Next: Pros & Cons of the Kings going young
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