Struggling Kings Face Grizzlies in Memphis Showdown

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Sacramento Kings will look to halt a seven-game losing streak as they face the Memphis Grizzlies on Thursday night at FedExForum. The Kings, with a record of 3-12, have struggled significantly this season and are facing the 4-11 Grizzlies in an anticipated NBA matchup.

Tip-off is set for 8 p.m. ET, and oddsmakers have made the Grizzlies 2.5-point favorites in this game. Both teams have experienced rough patches, as the Kings have lost their last seven games, while the Grizzlies are coming off of five consecutive defeats.

The Kings are coming off a 113-99 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, and they aim to find a spark against a Memphis team that has also fallen on hard times. DeMar DeRozan and Russell Westbrook remain crucial players for Sacramento, as they attempt to lift the team’s spirits amidst ongoing challenges.

Memphis, who recently added rookie Zach Edey to their lineup, hopes to benefit from his presence as he continues to adjust following offseason ankle surgery. Edey has averaged 10.5 points and nearly double-doubled in his last two games.

The Kings are expected to keep a close watch on their defensive performance, as they rank 27th in defensive rating in the league, allowing a high average of 123.6 points to opponents. This poses a challenge against the Grizzlies, who have a solid trio of scorers in Edey, Cedric Coward, and Santi Aldama.

Both teams aim to leverage their home-court and resting advantages, with Memphis trying to end its home games on a positive note after a disappointing road run. Sacramento remains winless in the second leg of back-to-back games this season.

Both coaches will be looking for strategic adjustments as they prepare for Thursday’s game. While the Kings have struggled to find their rhythm, the Grizzlies hope to capitalize on their recent home court familiarity to get back on track.

With a challenging season ahead, both teams are eager to turn their fortunes around and find momentum as they head deeper into the season.