The Sacramento Kings have seen a complete turnaround in their season since Doug Christie took over as head coach. 5 wins in a row is a really good way to offset the damage of 6 losses in a row. And the Kings did it despite missing Keegan Murray at times, despite missing De’Aaron Fox at times and even despite trailing by 17 points in the fourth quarter for the second straight game. The Kings have overcome every challenge in the last five games, but now the Kings face their biggest challenge of all. No, I’m not talking about the Boston Celtics, I’m talking about a game after a 3 day break!

Let’s talk Kings basketball!

When: Friday, January 10th, 4:30pm PST
Where: TD Garden, Boston, MA
TV: NBA TV, NBCSCA
radio: Sactown Sports 1140am

For your consideration

The Celtics are very good. I know this is exactly the kind of in-depth analysis you’re here for, but it’s really the simplest way to put it. The Celtics will essentially be at full strength, unless you were worried about Jordan Walsh destroying the Kings (a valid concern, to be fair). Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown, Kristaps Porzingis, Derrick White, Jrue Holiday, Al Horford, NEEMIAS QUETA! Boston’s depth is breathtaking. The Kings are also expected to play at full strength as De’Aaron Fox is listed as questionable for this game, but we expect he will likely play. Of course, this presents new challenges for Doug Christie, but finding minutes for the best player is a good problem to have.

Update: Just kidding! According to the latest injury report, De’Aaron Fox is out for this game.

The key to this game is three points, just like it has been for the Kings most of the season, but Boston takes it a step further. The Celtics average an incredible 49.8 three-point attempts per game, the most in the league. They rank 12th in the league in 3P% at 36.6%, but the volume makes it a deadly offense. As Boston’s shots continue, so does the game. 38.6% in wins, 31.4% in losses. Stop the 3 and you stop the Boston Celtics. Quite simple, right? However, the Kings have allowed their opponents to shoot 37.6% from three this season. Even in the last 5 games, where it is at least like that felt As if the Kings weren’t giving up so many open threes, the Kings still allowed their opponents to shoot 36.2% from threes.

We’ll see if the Kings can overcome another challenge. Can the Kings come out strong? Can the Kings play a game after three days off without seeming lethargic? Can the Kings remember that they need to stay on their man while he’s in the corner, ready to shoot an open three-pointer? Hand over the smelling salts, Doug! The boys have to be vigilant!

forecast

The good vibes will never end. The Kings play defense, the Kings move the ball and the Kings put the NBA on notice by getting their sixth straight win over the Celtics.

Kings 124, Celtics 121