The Sacramento Kings host the Chicago Bulls on Feb. 5. This article previews the battle between De’Aaron Fox and Zach LaVine.
The Sacramento Kings continue their homestand against the Chicago Bulls tonight. Both teams are projected to be lottery finishers and are currently struggling. The Bulls have lost six consecutive games, and the Kings have dropped two straight. The previous meeting was an exciting close contest won by Sacramento and tonight is shaping up to be a similar affair.
Last time out, the Kings hosted the Dallas Mavericks on the second of a back-to-back. Sacramento had the lead after three quarters but faded down the stretch. The Mavericks picked up a 106-99 victory on Saturday. Below is a highlight video of that game.
Today, we examine the matchup to watch and some final thoughts about the Feb. 5 contest between the Kings and the Bulls.
Fox vs. LaVine
The Bulls moved on from their franchise player last offseason. They traded perennial All-Star Jimmy Butler to Minnesota in a deal centered around Zach LaVine and a lottery pick. The pick turned into Lauri Markkanen (I told you, Markkanen would be a unique talent Kings fans) and those two now make up the future core in Chicago. LaVine is returning from a torn ACL and has only played ten games this season. He is slowing rounding into form, though. LaVine has scored over 20 points in two straight games and figures to be the leading scorer for the Bulls this evening.
Related Story: Trading Z-Bo: 3 potential fits for the King
The Kings will likely matchup franchise player versus franchise player. De’Aaron Fox is likely to see plenty of face time against LaVine. Both are extremely quick and athletic talents, but Fox likely has the speed advantage. It could be a boost to Sacramento’s offense as LaVine is not known as an exceptional defender. Fox may be in store for a massive night on the offensive end, and that would go a significant way in helping the Kings secure a home victory.
Final thoughts
The Chicago Bulls invade the Golden 1 Center tonight. Hopefully, Sacramento can earn a win as they have not won in front of their home crowd since Jan. 6. Lauri Markkanen is out for Chicago this evening. That could be a boost for the Kings as well. Willie Cauley-Stein could have his way inside especially if the Bulls sit Robin Lopez as the trade rumors swirl.
Keep an eye out for an update on Frank Mason. Mason was scheduled to return in February, but we have not heard any news other than he is not practicing yet. Keep an eye out to see if he suffered a setback or just is not healing as fast as the Kings would like. Stay tuned.
Next: Trading George Hill: 6 potential fits for the King
A Royal Pain should be your outlet for all things Sacramento Kings. Our team’s mission is to provide all the information fans desire in a unique way that separates us from every other site. Please check back with us frequently to never miss an article. Thank you for reading.