Kings Aim to Keep Things Rolling Versus a Struggling Warriors Squad

ROSEVILLE: Week 4 Predictions

By Devyn Harrell | Roseville Media Associate

7:30 p.m. - Kings (1-2) vs Warriors (0-2)

The Kings got a much needed win last week over the heavily favored Ducks. The addition of guard Mike Cucicea seems to be exactly what they needed. His unselfish play on offense and ability to defend at a high level is a welcome sight. JD Smith is pouring in 28 points per contest, while snatching 11 boards. However, his 20 percent shooting from deep and 4 assists to 9 turnovers through three games, needs some attention. With a capable group of shooters around him, I think it’s only a matter of time before Smith begins trusting his teammates and seeing his assist numbers rise.

The Warriors were devastated by the loss of Daniel Williams after a breakout performance Week 1. His replacement Hunter Hammond was expected to make his debut last week but was a late scratch for the contest. Veteran guards Erik Thomas and Dwayne Childs have been leaned upon heavily in the absence of Williams, while Matt Aitchison has enjoyed a rather productive rookie season so far. The Warriors have the pieces to compete but have yet to have their players all show up. The Kings have to be extremely confident entering this matchup. As the Warriors, despite their talent and experience, have yet to really find an identity. The Warriors will look to contain JD Smith and force the rest of the Kings to beat them.

SPREAD: Kings -5.5

OV/UN: 180.5

Prediction: The Kings get some big performances from their role players while covering the spread and moving to 2-2 on the season. 

8:30 p.m. - Ducks (1-1) vs Dirty Birds (2-0)

The Birds, coming off a bye week. The Ducks coming off an upset loss. This game as all the makings of an early season playoff preview. Mel Thompson will be looked to to defend Aaron Hendricks, while Austin Boyd will be tasked with slowing down Darius Wright. The winners of these matchups will have a huge bearing on the games outcome. 

The size and rebounding ability of the Dirty Birds will most certainly be a handful for the Ducks. If the Ducks are to knock off the Birds they will have to find a way to keep them off of the glass and unfortunately for them, I don’t see that happening. Samantha Campos and Chris Harris have really struggled to this point. This is the game that their team needs to see them break out. 

SPREAD: Birds -4.5

OV/UN: 184.5

Prediction: I just don’t care for the defensive matchups in this one when it comes the Ducks. I think the Dirty Birds have the ability to exploit the Ducks weaknesses and I believe that they will do just that. Although I think the Birds will win, I’m picking the Ducks +4.5 as I don’t think the Dirty Birds will cover.

Power Rankings

1. Dirty Birds (2-0)

2. Hornets (2-1)

3. Ducks (1-1)

4. Kings (1-2)

5. Warriors (0-2)