Programming note: Thunder-Kings coverage starts tonight at 6:30pm with Kings Pregame Live on CSN California and streaming on Live Extra.
Editor's note: The video above is of Sacramento's Jan. 4 win over Oklahoma City.
SACRAMENTO -- In desperate need of a win, the Sacramento Kings return to their home court Monday night to face one of the league’s best teams in the Oklahoma City Thunder.
After rattling off three-straight victories, the Kings have lost two in a row and currently sit at just 14-15 on their home floor. They are nine games under .500, but remain four games behind the Houston Rockets for the eighth spot in the Western Conference Standings.
The Thunder are coming off a drama-filled 121-118 overtime loss to the Golden State Warriors on Saturday night. Kevin Durant finished the night with 37 points, 12 rebounds and five assists before fouling out in the extra session. Serge Ibaka added 15 points and 20 rebounds in the loss.
LINE
Thunder by 9
WHERE THEY STAND
Kings: 24-33, third place in Pacific
Thunder: 41-18, first place in Northwest
MATCHUP TO WATCH
DeMarcus Cousins vs. Steven Adams -- The last time these two faced of, Cousins dropped 33 points and 19 rebounds on the New Zealander, but that is rare for this matchup. In his third season, Adams is establishing himself as one of the league’s rugged defenders in the post. Cousins will have to work around the 7-footer, because there is no way he is going through him.
INJURY REPORT
Kings: PG Rajon Rondo (right thumb tendinitis) was upgraded to probable and will play, F Rudy Gay (right shoulder strain) is doubtful, G Seth Curry (right foot sprain) is out. Rondo, Gay and Curry all missed shootaround early Monday.
Thunder: No injuries to report.
SERIES HISTORY
The season series between these two teams is knotted at 1-1 after the Kings picked up a 116-104 victory over OKC on Jan 4. The Thunder hold a 139-83 all-time lead over the Kings and an 82-47 advantage in the Sacramento-era.
QUOTABLE
“They run really fast. DeMarcus Cousins is really playing at a superstar level. We’ve got to be aware. We’re looking forward to playing. Definitely excited to get another opportunity.” -Kevin Durant on facing the Kings
