Opinion
3 min read

Sacramento Kings and Memphis Grizzlies Set to Clash at FedExForum

As the Sacramento Kings prepare to face off against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum, fans are eager for insights into how their team might fare. The upcoming game, scheduled for January 30th, presents an intriguing matchup that could go either way based on recent performances.


SACRAMENTO, CA - JANUARY 23:  Harrison Barnes #40 of the Sacramento Kings drives to the basket during the game against the  Memphis Grizzlies  on January 23, 2023 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)

The Kings have had a mixed bag of results in their last three games. On December 24th, they fell short against the Minnesota Timberwolves with a final score of 98-110 despite playing at home. Their offense struggled to find rhythm as they shot only 43 percent from the field and an even more concerning 24 percent from beyond the arc. However, they did manage to keep turnovers low with just 11 and showed tenacity on defense with 10 steals.


In contrast, Sacramento's game on December 23rd showcased their potential when firing on all cylinders. They dominated the Phoenix Suns with a resounding victory of 120-105. The offensive efficiency was night and day compared to their performance against Minnesota; shooting over half of their attempts successfully and converting fast break opportunities at an impressive rate of nearly 73 percent.


SACRAMENTO, CA - JANUARY 23:  Desmond Bane #22 of the Memphis Grizzlies drives to the basket during the game against the  Sacramento Kings on January 23, 2023 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)

However, it's important not to overlook the defensive lapses that were exposed in their game against Boston Celtics on December 21st where they conceded a staggering 144 points. Despite putting up a respectable offensive effort themselves scoring 119 points, it was clear that defensive adjustments are necessary if they wish to contend with high-scoring teams like Memphis.


The Grizzlies will be no easy task; known for their gritty playstyle and ability to control games through physicality and hustle plays. With both teams having strengths that can exploit each other's weaknesses, this matchup promises plenty of excitement.


SACRAMENTO, CA - JANUARY 23:  Kenneth Lofton Jr. #6 of the Memphis Grizzlies drives to the basket during the game against the  Sacramento Kings on January 23, 2023 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Rocky Widner/NBAE via Getty Images)

For Sacramento fans hoping for victory away from home soil must look towards improved perimeter defense while maintaining offensive fluidity seen in previous wins this season. It will be crucial for them to disrupt Memphis' flow early on if they want control over the game tempo.


Looking ahead towards January's end-of-month contest set at FedExForum in Memphis – tip-off is scheduled for January 30th at what would be local time – fans can catch all the action live via NBCS-CA channel or BSSE depending on your location.

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