Cavaliers vs. Kings: game preview, start time, TV information

The Cleveland Cavaliers are coming off a disappointing loss against Memphis on Monday night. They'll try to clean up their offense as they visit the struggling Sacramento Kings, who have lost six of their last seven games.

Who? Cleveland Cavaliers (44-18) vs Sacramento Kings (25-37)

When? 10 p.m.

Where? Sleep Train Arena, Sacramento, California

Broadcast? Fox Sports Ohio & NBA League Pass

Enemy Blog? Sactown Royalty

Music?

What to watch for?

The Kings have the 14th offense in the league. They shoot well both inside the arc (50 percent) and outside (36 percent). They get to the line at an above average rate, and they hit the offensive boards well. However, they don't take many 3-point shots, struggle to convert at the line and turn the ball over a ton (Rajon Rondo says "Hi").

Defensively, they currently have the 22nd ranked defense. They simply give up a lot of easy shots, which opponents convert at a high rate. They are average to above average at defensive rebounding, forcing turnovers and avoiding shooting fouls, but that just doesn't matter much when opponents are usually getting the shot they want on the first try.

The Kings play at the fastest pace in the NBA. This is kind of self-sabotage in a way; teams that aren't very good should slow the pace down to increase their odds of winning. They do score nearly 18 points per game on fast breaks, with a plus three net margin over their opponents in this regard. But the high pace also contributes to their high turnover rate. So, it'd be good if we take care of the ball tonight, forcing them to run off of made baskets and defensive rebounds rather than turnovers.

DeMarcus Cousins is one of the best players in the NBA. He's averaging 27 points and 11 rebounds per game. He gets to the free throw line more than anyone in the NBA save James Harden, so the likes of Tristan Thompson and Timofey Mozgov have to be careful not to end up in foul trouble. If the Cavs can limit him, then the Cavs should win.

FtS Fearless Prediction

The Cavs come out firing and end up shooting better than 40 percent from deep. With only 12 turnovers, compared to 25 on Monday night, the offense will be very efficient overall. Cavaliers win 121-106 despite Rondo dropping 23 dimes.