Keith Smart said lineup changes are a possibility now that the Kings are 2-7. And as usual, Smart is being secretive about what those changes might be when the Kings play the Brooklyn Nets this afternoon.
But the lineup isn't the only thing that needs to change to end Sacramento's four-game losing streak.
So here are some lineup possibilities and other areas of improvement to look for this afternoon.
1. Aaron Brooks in the starting lineup: The competition for the starting point guard spot was closer than most realize. This would be the most obvious change to shake up what has been a slow-starting team lately.
2. Marcus Thornton in the starting lineup: Along with Brooks, Thornton has been a big part of the production from the bench. If Smart starts Thornton, that would probably put Tyreke Evans at small forward and James Johnson on the bench. Then the Kings would have a smaller lineup, which Smart would prefer not to use.
3. More Jimmer: For a team that needs more spacing and improved shooting, Jimmer Fredette has to be an option. Defenses have to respect his outside shot, which can't be said about many of the Kings.
4. Check the egos: If all the talk of self-examination and accountability was serious, we should see some changes in how the Kings approach the game. That means finding the hot player on offense and more than two people touching the ball on offense. Now is not the time for players to prove their worth while the team struggles.
5. Halftime routine: Whatever the Kings have been doing at halftime isn't working. In their last two games the Kings have been routed in the third quarter. The Nets have the talent to bury the Kings in the same manner if they come out flat.
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