Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the NBA match.
The Oklahoma City Thunder return home after a three-game road trip, facing a Sacramento Kings side that has looked extremely inconsistent early in the season. The reigning champions are expected to enjoy another comfortable night.
Oklahoma City Thunder
The Thunder have opened the campaign with a perfect 4-0 record, exactly as befits a defending champion. Their success is built on an explosive offence, averaging 121 points per game. Team leader Shai Gilgeous-Alexander tops the league in scoring with an average of 40 points, setting the tone for the entire roster.
Sacramento Kings
The Sacramento Kings’ only win came against the rebuilding Utah Jazz (105:104). Against stronger opponents like the Phoenix Suns (116:120) and the Los Angeles Lakers (120:127), the Kings were clearly second best. This comes as no surprise. Much like the Chicago Bulls’ Zachary Lavine and DeMar DeRozan duo in past years, their defence continues to underperform, while an ageing core makes it harder to produce top attacking performances.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs Sacramento Kings Prediction
The Oklahoma City Thunder are the clear favourites here. The Sacramento Kings have struggled even against mid-table teams in the Western Conference, and facing the league leaders away from home looks like too steep a task. The Thunder should win comfortably.
