Kings lose in a tale of two halves
By Scott Levin
Sports Informant Contributing Writer
Sacramento has become the king of the demoralizing loss. After a first half where they looked more like playoff contenders than bottom feeders, the Kings followed up with a complete second half meltdown. A 14-point lead evaporated amid careless ball handling and shoddy shooting. In regulation, Spencer Hawes last-second jumper clanged off the iron, leading to an overtime period where the Kings were outscored 13-10. The Nuggets escaped with a 112-109 victory.
A Kings’ trade could benefit the team
By Scott Levin
Sports Informant Contributing Writer
Unlike the past few years, the Kings have some depth on their roster and could benefit from making a trade. The biggest trade chips the Kings have seem to be Kenny Thomas (an expiring contract that could offer immediate cap relief for a team), Andres Nocioni (recognized around the league for his gritty play) and Kevin Martin (while there is no rush to deal, he does have significant value on the market). It would still benefit Sacramento to see how Martin fits in when fully healthy, but the need for a big man could trump that plan. Many Kings fans have seen enough and are calling for a Martin deal.
Kings suffer fifth straight loss
By Scott Levin
Sports Informant Contributing Writer
The excitement that surrounded the Kings earlier in the season is fading with every loss. With a 108-97 defeat at the hands of Atlanta, the Kings dropped their 12th game in the last 14. The Kings started well, racing to a 10-point lead in the first quarter. But the second half has become a problem for the team. Sacramento seemed to be a step slow to every loose ball, and Atlanta, paced by Jamal Crawford’s 20 points off the bench, cruised to victory.
All-Star Weekend should be full of Kings
By Scott Levin
Sports Informant Contributing Writer
NBA All-Star Weekend kicks off Feb. 11 in Dallas and for the first time since 2004, Sacramento figures to be represented in the week’s activities. The All-Star game may be a long shot, but several Kings have a chance to participate in the other contests.



