Game Preview
The Sacramento Kings enter Monday's matchup riding a modest win streak and looking to build on their solid start to the season. While their 8-6 record is just a shade above .500, the Kings have found their offensive rhythm, averaging nearly 118 points per game. Their attack has been fueled by efficient shooting, hovering around 49 percent from the field and 83 percent at the free throw line.
Defensively, the Kings have held opponents to just over 114 points on average, aided by their ability to force turnovers and protect the rim. In their last 10 games, Sacramento has grabbed almost 45 rebounds while dishing out 24 assists, illustrating their commitment to ball movement and crashing the boards.
The Atlanta Hawks, meanwhile, come in struggling to find consistency. Their 6-8 record reflects an up-and-down campaign, punctuated by a recent loss that snapped a brief two-game win streak. Despite averaging 116 points, the Hawks have surrendered 120 points per contest, a number they'll need to improve to string wins together.
One bright spot has been Atlanta's passing, as they've assisted on nearly 29 baskets per game. However, their 15.8 turnovers over the last 10 games have negated some of those scoring opportunities. The Hawks have also struggled to knock down shots at a high clip, shooting just under 47 percent from the field and 78 percent at the charity stripe.
As these teams take the floor, keep an eye on Sacramento's ability to control the tempo and protect the ball. If the Kings can maintain their efficient scoring while limiting the Hawks' transition opportunities, they'll be well-positioned to extend their winning ways at home.