Sacramento Kings vs New Orleans Pelicans Preview – December 12

The Sacramento Kings will travel to the Smoothie King Center to face the New Orleans Pelicans on Thursday night. Sacramento (12-13) enters the game on a scoring tear, averaging 140.5 points over their past two games, while New Orleans (5-20) has struggled defensively, allowing 122 points per game in their last four outings.
Both teams come into this matchup after three days of rest, setting the stage for an exciting Western Conference clash. Sacramento has shown a strong pace of play, which puts pressure on opposing defenses. New Orleans will need to find a way to slow them down to have a chance.
Sacramento Kings
The Kings are thriving offensively, with a balanced attack led by De’Aaron Fox, who is averaging 21 points and nine assists per game. Domantas Sabonis has been strong in the paint, contributing 19 points and 12 rebounds in their last game against the Utah Jazz. Sacramento’s deep bench, featuring sharpshooters like Doug McDermott and Kevin Huerter, has fueled their recent surge with 22 made three-pointers in their previous outing.
Sacramento has also done well in sharing the ball. Their passing has led to good shot opportunities, and they are making those shots at a high rate. If the Kings can keep their ball movement going, they will be tough to beat.
New Orleans Pelicans
The Pelicans continue to struggle, losing 11 of their past 12 games. Injuries have been a major factor, with key players like Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram sidelined. Despite the setbacks, Trey Murphy III has stepped up, averaging 25 points in their last game against the San Antonio Spurs. Rookie center Yves Missi has also been a bright spot, contributing 18 points and 14 rebounds.
New Orleans has tried to make adjustments, but their defense has been a problem. They allow teams to score easily, especially in transition. The Pelicans will need to focus on staying in front of their opponents and contesting shots to have a chance.
Pick and Prediction
The Kings’ offensive firepower and defensive improvements make them heavy favorites in this matchup. New Orleans’ lack of consistency and injuries will likely limit their ability to keep up, even with a strong effort from Trey Murphy III and CJ McCollum.
Sacramento’s fast-paced style and strong three-point shooting could give them an early lead. If they play solid defense, the Kings should be able to maintain control and come away with a win.
- Prediction: Sacramento Kings 128, New Orleans Pelicans 110