Stopping Jusuf Nurkic
In almost every game this season, the Blazers have had their starting backcourt in Damian Lillard and C.J. McCollum play well. For the Kings, it is alright if Portland’s two-headed monster has a good game. It is pretty much expected. But what Sacramento cannot afford is to have guys from Portland’s supporting cast light up the stat sheet as well, specifically Jusuf Nurkic.
The last time the Kings played the Blazers, Nurkic was a monster for his team. His stat line for the match was 24 points, 23 rebounds, seven assists, five blocks, and five steals. It is critical tonight for the Kings to stop Nurkic. If he and Portland’s starting guards all go off tonight, the Sacramento defense will be run off the floor.
In order for the Kings to be successful in battling Nurkic tonight, they need a good all-around performance from their big men. This group contains Willie Cauley-Stein, Harry Giles, and Marvin Bagley III. Offensively, all three need to be efficient in running the floor at a fast rate and scoring in the interior. As for the defensive side of the ball, they need to make sure they are being physical with Nurkic and prevent him from being comfortable. It is also VERY crucial that they are at least being competitive in rebounding the ball as well.
If the Kings are able to allow just two players from the Blazers, most likely Lillard and McCollum, to have good games tonight, their chances of a win will increase, in my opinion.