NBA Western Power Rankings Week 5: Thunder thrive, Grizzlies rise

Nov 23, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; Sacramento Kings forward DeMarcus Cousins (15) reacts after getting called for a foul in the second half against the Charlotte Hornets at Time Warner Cable Arena. The Hornets defeated the Kings 127-122 in OT. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

12th: Sacramento Kings (15 points)

By Jose Salviati

Record: 7-12

Record last week: 1-3

I mentioned in this space last week that the Kings look good on paper and they do. If he could somehow turn this team around it would be George Karl’s greatest accomplishment in his Hall of Fame career.  Imagine DeMarcus Cousins getting a big rebound then kicking the ball out to Rajon Rondo. Rondo starts his quick assault on the basketball, surveying the floor the whole way. He spots Rudy Gay in the corner, but opts instead to drive then pass to Ben McLemore who pump fakes then hands the ball off to Cousins who was trailing the play. He drives and throws the ball down for a monstrous dunk as the crowd goes crazy. Sadly, those consistent moments of basketball zen have escaped the Kings thus far.

They are coming off another rough week posting a 1-3 record with losses to the Charlotte Hornets, Minnesota Timberwolves and Warriors. The team’s sole win came against the Milwaukee Bucks on the road. If Coach Karl is going to turn this team around the U-turn needs to start soon. Sadly for the Kings, this week wasn’t that week.

Next: Portland Trail Blazers