MATCHUP OF THE GAME

3 THINGS

1. Rookie Gorgui Dieng has gotten a lot of playing time lately as Nikola Pekovic has been in and out of the lineup with ankle issues and he's made the most of it, averaging 12.0 points, 12.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.6 blocks as a starter.  It should be noted that Dieng is already 24 years old and should be expected to make an impact sooner than other rookies, but it doesn't take away from the fact that he's been impressive.  He even hit the game winner in their last game against the Rockets, where he had his second career-game of grabbing at least 20 rebounds (both of which came against Houston).

3. Tonight might be Sacramento's best chance for a win, and a chance to tie last season's 28 wins.  However, even if they don't tie that record, this is a Kings team that is clearly better than last season's squad.  Injuries to key players have held the team back, as has unparalleled roster turnover.  Perhaps most impressive to me though is that despite the adversity and the losing record, this team has yet to give up on the season, playing very competitively against some very good teams.

PRE-GAME HAIKU

PREDICTION

Kings 109, Timberwolves 98 as the Kings break the losing streak and give the home crowd one last win before the season ends.