By Jeff Hall

MEMPHIS –

It’s a brand new day with the same old story. The Kings got off to another hot start for the second game in a row. But struggled again in the 2nd half and the 4th quarter allowing the Grizzlies to win the game 111-110 in a game the Grizzlies were completely outplayed for most of the game. But the NBA is a game that to win you must compete for four quarters.

The unbearable trend is mostly due to DeMarcus Cousins getting into early foul trouble again which is what continues to be a negative impact to the Kings both offensively and defensively. The Kings led the game after the 1st by 26 points, but the Grizzlies scored 95 points in the final 3 quarters of the game and came out with the win in the final second on an inbound pass to Mike Conley who was not covered by any Kings player on the floor. Rudy Gay and Cousins both had another great game, but the Kings are a weaker team once Cousins is out of the game because of foul trouble.

The player showing his biggest improvement for the Kings is Ben McLemore who struggled in the team’s first 5 games has been solid with the 3 point shot scoring 10 points in the first half.

Darren Collison had limited playing time. Collison is suffering with left shoulder stiffness that caused him to miss the previous game against the Dallas Mavericks. Collison made a big three point basket with no time left on the clock at end of the 3rd quarter.

A great first half is not enough for the Kings, who continue to struggle in the 4th quarter. The Grizzlies outscored the Kings 35-19 in the 4th allowing the Grizzlies an opportunity to devastate the kings in the final minute of the game.

Up next, the Kings return home to Sleep Train Arena Saturday to take on the defending champion San Antonio Spurs.