Following a blowout loss to the Nuggets, the Sixers are looking to secure a win against the Kings. Sacramento are shorthanded and seemingly tanking. The Sixers are also missing key players.
Embiid Ruled Out Against Kings
Joel Embiid has been downgraded to out after initially being listed as doubtful for today’s game. The Sixers are still missing key talent as they stay on the road. Tyrese Maxey and Paul George are also out. Johni Broome remains out after knee surgery, along with Kelly Oubre Jr. with his left elbow sprain.
The Kings aren’t at full strength either. Domantas Sabonis and Zach LaVine are out for the season. Keegan Murray is another notable loss with a left ankle sprain. De’Andre Hunter, Drew Eubanks and Devin Carter are also out. Malik Monk is questionable with a right ankle sprain.
Kings’ Offensive Struggles
Despite adding offensive talent last season, the Kings haven’t been able to get anything going this year. The absence of Sabonis since early February has been a major blow. LaVine being out since the All-Star break has only made matters worse. Their offense is ranked 26th. Their defense is ranked 28th.
Key Players for the Kings
The main concerns for the Sixers’ defence are Monk, if he’s available, and DeRozan. Monk’s versatile scoring has remained efficient this season, from his attacks in the paint to his three-point shooting. The Sixers’ forwards main challenge will be staying physical with DeRozan and contesting his mid-range game as best as possible.
Russell Westbrook continues to have a prominent role in the team’s offense as well, leading the team in usage percentage for the season. The Sixers can’t fall asleep against his drives and what he’ll be doing to pick out cutters and shooters as the team’s lead playmaker.
If the Sixers are going to grab another win before any of their stars return, Thursday’s matchup against the Kings is one of their best opportunities. At 18-52, Sacramento is firmly at the bottom of the Western Conference.