Which Kings side will turn up to play this year?
Much like the rest of the teams that look likely yo finish in the bottom half of the Western Conference this year, the main goal for the Sacramento Kings is preparing for the future.
The playoffs are not the gal this season and it would take a minor miracle if they were even to nudge the bottom of the top eight.
So much of the team’s potential is directly related to re-signed centre DeMarcus Cousins and whether his mentally maturity can catch up to his potential on the court.
Cousins has the ability to be a 20 and 10 man every night for the Kings but has failed to back it up so often and has compounded his reputation with his antics towards the team’s front office off the court.
However, with the Kings staying in Sacramento for the long-term and with the inner turmoil with the team sorted there is a chance for some growth this year.
The loss of the fourth round pick from the 2009 draft Tyreke Evans will hurt the Kings this season as he brought with him a unique blend of a two guard in a small forward’s body.
In his place steps Ben McLemore who was taken as the seventh pick in the latest draft.
The former Kansas star has similar physical gifts to replace Evans as he stands 6’5″ and weighs 195lb, which is sure to go up once he bulks up to adjust to the NBA game.
Beyond that the Kings again look light in the talent department with Greivis Vasquez, Isaiah Thomas ad Jimmer Fredette again to fight it out for the starting point guard spot.
Luc Mbah a Moute is likely to get the first crack at the starting small forward role while Jason Thompson will line up with Cousins in the middle.
Against a deep Western Conference the Kings will struggle to make an impact for much of the season, but if their young players can improve enough to give the team hope for the future, then it will be mission accomplished for season 2013-14.
Sacramento Kings predicted finish: 13th
Rankings
Offence: 6/10
Defence: 6/10
Front court: 7/10
Back court: 6.5/10
Bench: 4/10
Coach: 7/10
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