http://www.sacbee.com/content/sports/story/13779899p-14621757c.html
Kings vs. Los Angeles Lakers, 7 p.m.
At UNLV's Thomas & Mack Center
What to expect from the Kings: In a word: progress.
The Kings know they need some semblance of momentum heading into the regular season, not to mention the need for a win to finish with a 4-4 preseason record. After weeks of the focus being on the young guys and new additions, it's time for the old veterans to step it up. Point guard Mike Bibby has been struggling, hitting just 18 of 57 shots (31.5 percent) coming in. Small forward Peja Stojakovic has converted just 25 of 64 (39 percent), while only center Brad Miller has been close to normal.
What to expect from the Lakers: In a word: Kobe. No surprise here, but shooting guard Kobe Bryant has been carrying his team, averaging 22 points as the Lakers have gone 5-2. The newest Laker, forward Kwame Brown, has been solid, if not spectacular. Brown, the former No. 1 pick in 2001, was traded from Washington in July in exchange for swingman Caron Butler and point guard Chucky Atkins.
Key date
Tuesday: at New Orleans/Oklahoma City in Oklahoma City - The regular season finally arrives.
Kings vs. Los Angeles Lakers, 7 p.m.
At UNLV's Thomas & Mack Center
What to expect from the Kings: In a word: progress.
The Kings know they need some semblance of momentum heading into the regular season, not to mention the need for a win to finish with a 4-4 preseason record. After weeks of the focus being on the young guys and new additions, it's time for the old veterans to step it up. Point guard Mike Bibby has been struggling, hitting just 18 of 57 shots (31.5 percent) coming in. Small forward Peja Stojakovic has converted just 25 of 64 (39 percent), while only center Brad Miller has been close to normal.
What to expect from the Lakers: In a word: Kobe. No surprise here, but shooting guard Kobe Bryant has been carrying his team, averaging 22 points as the Lakers have gone 5-2. The newest Laker, forward Kwame Brown, has been solid, if not spectacular. Brown, the former No. 1 pick in 2001, was traded from Washington in July in exchange for swingman Caron Butler and point guard Chucky Atkins.
Key date
Tuesday: at New Orleans/Oklahoma City in Oklahoma City - The regular season finally arrives.
