Toronto Raptors - Sacramento Kings predictions and free betting tips [20/03/2024]

Sacramento Kings and Toronto Raptors are set to clash on Thursday at the Scotiabank Arena.

Toronto Raptors

The Raptors are in a significant rut, having suffered 9 defeats in their last 10 games, including a double loss to Orlando Magic, which extended their losing streak to 7 in a row. Monday's away loss was particularly painful, with 96:113 on the scoreboard encapsulating the team's current struggles. The team grappled with the absence of key players, including Scottie Barnes, Jakob Poeltl, and RJ Barrett, hampering their attempts to find stability and get back to winning ways.

Managing only 44% field goal shooting and eight out of 31 from three-point range, the Raptors fought hard for every point in the first half, but ultimately lost control in the third quarter, allowing Orlando to pull ahead. Head coach Darko Rajakovic and his team are striving to find recovery strategies, utilising every opportunity to improve and learn from ongoing failures. Nwora underscored the value of these opportunities for team development and readiness for future challenges, despite the current losing streak.

Sacramento Kings

The Kings are in stellar form, winning five out of their last seven games and aiming to continue their run following an exhilarating overtime victory over Memphis Grizzlies, with a score of 121:111. Malik Monk put on a show, scoring 28 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists, demonstrating leadership and taking charge in overtime, where he scored 12 crucial points. Domantas Sabonis also made a substantial contribution with 25 points and 18 rebounds, securing a double-double and matching a franchise record, becoming the 10th player in NBA history to hit such a run in 50-plus games. 

The Kings showed a 44% field goal accuracy and converted 11 of 35 three-point attempts. Despite struggling to hold an early 12-point lead, the team demonstrated character and poise, notably in overtime, where they managed to confidently overpower the Grizzlies. Coach Mike Brown and the team highly valued the contribution of Monk and his ability to create those clutch shots, emphasising the importance of having multiple players who can take the game into their own hands at critical moments. Now, the Kings are preparing to commence a three-game road journey, with Toronto Raptors being their first adversary and the team aiming to utilise their current form to sustain their success in the season.

Match Forecast for Toronto Raptors vs Sacramento Kings

While the Sacramento Kings are still without Kevin Huerter and Trey Lyles, Toronto Raptors are yet again forced to make do without Jakob Poeltl, Scottie Barnes, and Immanuel Quickley. The Kings approach the upcoming match in a more advantageous position and, unsurprisingly, are considered favourites in the away match, given the Raptors' current seven-game losing streak. Considering the circumstances, I expect a tough game from the Canadians and bet on a TU (total under) points outcome.