When Marcus Thornton signed his new contract that will pay him about $8 million a season over the next four years, there were those that wondered how the small-market Kings could pay such a sum to Thornton.
The logic was no one would offer the restricted free agent that much and the Kings might be able to match an offer sheet for a lower price.
After two preseason games (a small size sample) Thornton is looking like the best player on the Kings.
After scoring 21 points in a loss at Golden State, Thornton came back with another 21-point effort Tuesday night in the Kings 95-91 win.
Thornton's three pointer with 27.1 seconds gave the Kings a 92-91 lead they would not relinquish.
Thornton also managed to grab seven rebounds, have four assists, two steals and just one turnover.
Thornton was also impressive in the Kings' open scrimmage last Thursday, making a game winner, too.
If he keeps this up, Thornton's salary will look like a bargain.
*Travis Outlaw played only 16 minutes but it was easy to see he will have a big role.
He looked comfortable in the role of designated double teamer in the Kings' fullcourt press. Outlaw joked the role tired him quickly.
Outlaw said he feels comfortable guarding either forward spot or shooting guards. He's the kind of player Paul Westphal has been looking for.
And as a bonus, the Kings only have to pay $3 million of his $7 million salary after winning an amnesty waiver bid on him.
*Ran into John Salmons after the game. He said he expects to be able to play next Monday when the Kings open the season against the Los Angeles Lakers.
*You can read more here on Tyler Honeycutt's first extended playing time or more on Outlaw's adjustment to the Kings, a small tribute to Chuck Hayes in the locker room and some more Samuel Dalembert news.








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