Sac Kings -13.5 (-113) Seems like a ridiculous line for a road team, but here's why it is so large:
* Blazers are in major tank mode. All starters are at out, plus Reddish and Watford are doubtful. Watford has become a nice bench option at power forward, and while Reddish is inconsistent as a shooter, he provides defense and athleticism. Blazers are down to 19 year old Shaedon Sharpe (talented but raw), Nassir Little ( a reasonably good wing off the bench), Drew Eubanks (the backup center, but not a scorer), Matisse Thybulle ( a poor shooter off the bench....and then the young, overmatched bench. I do not know where the scoring will come from too keep them in this game.
* The Kings failed to seal a playoff spot with their recent home loss to Minnesota. Coach Brown is pissed at his team's performance, and while the players like playing for him, they know they better show up tonight. Good spot for the Kings, who DO have a solid bench. PG De'Aaron Fox is also playing well, and should be a major factor here. Blazer fans are a supportive bunch, but lately attendance and enthusiasm are down.
* New Orleans led by 34 going into the 4th quarter two nights ago. NO still led by 32-36 midway through the 4th.
* Blazers are in major tank mode. All starters are at out, plus Reddish and Watford are doubtful. Watford has become a nice bench option at power forward, and while Reddish is inconsistent as a shooter, he provides defense and athleticism. Blazers are down to 19 year old Shaedon Sharpe (talented but raw), Nassir Little ( a reasonably good wing off the bench), Drew Eubanks (the backup center, but not a scorer), Matisse Thybulle ( a poor shooter off the bench....and then the young, overmatched bench. I do not know where the scoring will come from too keep them in this game.
* The Kings failed to seal a playoff spot with their recent home loss to Minnesota. Coach Brown is pissed at his team's performance, and while the players like playing for him, they know they better show up tonight. Good spot for the Kings, who DO have a solid bench. PG De'Aaron Fox is also playing well, and should be a major factor here. Blazer fans are a supportive bunch, but lately attendance and enthusiasm are down.
* New Orleans led by 34 going into the 4th quarter two nights ago. NO still led by 32-36 midway through the 4th.
