3 THINGS TO LOOK FOR

MATCHUP OF THE GAME

With Durant and Westbrook out, Ibaka is the de facto star of this Thunder team. Once known as merely a defensive force, Ibaka has developed a diverse offensive game over the years and has become an exceptionally good outside shooter as well. In 6 games so far this season he's averaging 17.7 points a game on 54.2% from the field and a very good 46.7% from three despite shooting 5 attempts a game. Thompson meanwhile, has become a bit of a defensive stopper for Sacramento this year, with Sacramento being 13.1 points better defensively with him on the court. According to NBA.com, he's allowed just 41.4% shooting against him despite the average field goal percentage of the players he's guarding being 49.3%. If Thompson can keep Ibaka in check, the Thunder will have even less to work with and Sacramento will have a great chance to extend the winning streak to six.

PREGAME LIMERICK

Who knows if the Kings are for real,
but this opportunity is pretty ideal.
The Thunder are hurt,
it's up to the Kings to convert,
and make the opponents kneel.

PREDICTION