Hoo boy! Last time the Kings met the Nuggets it was a beat-down of epic proportions. It was like Mike Tyson in his prime vs. pretty much anyone sort of a beat-down. The Nuggets ran the fast break like it was going out of style, and the Kings had no answer. Technically, I believe all of Denver received free tacos from Taco Bell at halftime, Whoppers from BK after three quarters, and then free Alabama Slammers from the PS Lounge on Colfax after the game was over. Oh, that was me drowning my sorrows.
Will it be more of the same tonight? Things don't look to be in our favor. Injured is the very important Marcus Thornton, who can light it up when he's healthy. Chuck Hayes is not quite back yet, and we could use his beef against the Birdman, Nene, et al. The good news is that this team's effort should be much better, as I think they were looking to give Westphal a fitting farewell last time around. Also, while the Nuggets are a good "team", they don't have that individual star that really takes a game over, which can be both good and bad. We have a chance if we keep it close.
Demarcus Cousins:
If the Kings are Smart, they would look to feed DMC early and often. I don't think their front court can handle DMC, but last time the teams met, he pretty much took himself out of the game until the end.
Tyreke Evans:
Evans will need to put some of the scoring on his shoulders and deliver what he's capable of. Ty Lawson is a pain in the butt, but he can be pushed around. I'm not sure who will guard him in this matchup, but probably Afflalo.
John Salmons:
Heh. You know it's bad when you need Salmons to step it up. Seriously, he needs to step it up.
Jason Thompson:
Clean out the cobwebs between the ears - it's not a physically dominating lineup, at least not if you're banking on a dude named Timofey. Do the dirty work and it'll be an easy double-double.
Donte Greene:
I love ya man, but you need to keep Danilo busy and off the fast break. He's a slippery sucker. When Harrington is in, watch him drift outside. And for the love of Youngman, hit the open shot!
On to the awards!
JHA - I picked on Travis Outlaw last time around, and he didn't disappoint. Why change that?
Tony Delk Memorial - Nene wants his chance; he's tanned, rested, and ready. Didn't Mozgov get career highs against this team last time? Someone else is due. My gut says: Al Harrington.
LW-VC I don't see it happening, but I'm going to give it to the Birdman anyway.
RA&1 Someone needs to take this team and put it on his back. I'm not going to blame him for trying...unless it's Salmons.
Update:
No Afflalo, Fernandez, or Mozgov for the Nuggets. That's good in terms of their backcourt, and it limits their size up front.
Update #2:
Looks like Jimmer gets the start. Go figure! As long as he works on getting his shot in rhythm, it should be good. And by good, I mean, not bad.
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