Fans show up at Power Balance Pavilion wondering what to feel and what's next for the Kings.
Poll
What do you think of the Kings' second-to-last ranking in ESPN poll?
Your vote has been counted, thank you for voting.
The circus is in town this week for a four-day show at Power Balance Pavilion starting Thursday night.
But don't blame the elephants for that eye-watering smell wafting throughout the old barn in Natomas.
It's been there for years, and the owners have chosen to shovel it to one side instead of cleaning up the mess.
According to ESPN's 10th annual "Ultimate Standings" – ranking 122 NBA, NFL, MLB and NHL franchises – the Kings stink, and their owners, the Maloofs, are the worst among all professional franchises.
Once the No. 4 franchise in ESPN's first ranking in 2003, the Kings have tumbled all the way down to No. 121. Only the Toronto Maple Leafs rank lower. But at least the NHL team made a profit of $81 million last year.
And the Kings can't cry "small market" for their downfall. The No. 1 team on the list is the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Each franchise is ranked in numerous categories, including venue experience for fans, affordability, coaching, players, team success and ownership.
The Kings' highest ranking is 99th in Bang for The Buck. The lowest ranking is 122 – dead last – in ownership. It's no wonder, considering owners are graded based on "honesty and loyalty to core players and to the community."
So what's that smell coming out of the pavilion? It's the stuff the Maloofs are scraping off their Italian-made shoes while talking about their commitment to building a championship team and staying in Sacramento.
What to watch
Baseball, A's at Angels, 7:05 p.m., CSNCA: Oakland's A.J. Griffin tries to pump his record to 6-0.
Today's poll
What do you think of the Kings' second-to-last ranking in ESPN poll?
• Should rank higher
• No. 121 is fair
• Should rank last
Vote above or leave your comments in the comment field; or, go to www.sacbee.com/sports
Tuesday's results
Who should win the National League MVP award?
• Ryan Braun: 4%
• Chase Headley: 2%
• Andrew McCutchen: 12%
• Buster Posey: 80%
• Other: 2%
Total votes: 171
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