A capsule look at the Kings' opponents this week.
Monday, at Philadelphia Time: 4 p.m.
TV: CSN.
The skinny: It's a homecoming of sorts for Jason Thompson, John Salmons and Donté Greene, but the Kings would like to leave town with more than family reunions to feel good about. These aren't the same old 76ers, though, with free-agent addition Elton Brand on board and a need to down the Kings in light of their 1-2 start.
Wednesday, vs. Memphis
Time: 7 p.m.
TV: CSN.
The skinny: The young Grizzlies already have had a spirit-lifter, with Rudy Gay's late jumper on Friday night at FedEx Forum lifting them over Orlando in an upset. This is a battle of perceived cellar dwellers, although the Kings must make a statement in their long-awaited home opener.
Friday, vs. Minnesota
Time: 7 p.m.
TV: CSN.
The skinny: The Kings' 98-96 season-opening loss was as close to a feel-good defeat as they come for their squad, but the subsequent losses quickly changed its status to that of a missed opportunity. Kevin Martin can't go 5 of 19 from the field again, and the Kings simply can't afford to let the Timberwolves pull a repeat victory on their home floor.
FIRE AND ICE
Sam Amick offers a quick analysis of who starred and who struggled this week.
ON FIRE
F Jason Thompson
Three games in, his being a rookie has nothing to do with it. Thompson simply has played well.
It's not just that he has a combined 40 points on 17-of-28 shooting and 22 rebounds in 65 minutes. It's that he doesn't look like a rookie. While his defense remains raw, his physicality, nonstop motor and nose for the ball are elements the Kings sorely need. If this continues, his minutes can only increase.
ON ICE
G-F John Salmons
While Salmons had 24 points in the season opener at Minnesota, his first-half struggles (three points) were the first sign of problems with the change of offensive system.
Salmons, whose best asset is his ability to get to the rim in isolation, continues to learn the team's "strong" set that is reminiscent of the vaunted "triangle" offense that defined the championship eras for the Lakers and Chicago. He followed that performance with 14- and 12-point outings. Three games in, it's obvious he's not sure how to best produce within the system.
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