The Sixers (17-53) continue their three-game western swing with a matchup against the Kings (24-45) at Sleep Train Arena (10 p.m./CSN). Nerlens Noel and co. have won two out of their last three games and already beat Sacramento in their first meeting, 114-107.
Here's what you need to know before tipoff:
1. Pack the chips and hot dogs
Noel has been hosting a block party as he quietly builds a case for Rookie of the Year honors. He's averaging just under two blocks per game (1.9) and has posted seven games with at least three rejections since the All-Star break.
The 20-year old has proven equally adept at rebounding. He's pulled down at least 12 rebounds in a game seven times in the month of March.
Noel's development has been a bright spot for the Sixers this year, who have high hopes for a future frontline pairing of him and Joel Embiid.
2. Boogie nights
DeMarcus Cousins, Noel's counterpart on the Kings, has been having a transcendent season.
The fellow Kentucky product is averaging 23.6 points and 12.2 rebounds. Cousins has a PER of 24.92, ninth-best in the NBA.
NBA
Cousins recently missed two games with a calf injury, but returned to Sacramento's starting lineup on Sunday.
That's bad news for the Sixers, who know full well what Cousins can accomplish down low. They were the victims of his best single-game performance this season, a 39-point, 24-rebound showing in a losing cause back on Mar. 13.
3. Watch the ping-pong balls
The Sixers' 101-87 loss to the Lakers on Sunday was a boon for fans who want to see the team snag the best possible lottery position.
The Lakers' win pushed them a full game ahead of the Sixers in the NBA overall standings. Los Angeles had the league's fourth-worst record before Monday night's games tipped. The Sixers had the league's third-worst.
New York currently occupies the basement of the NBA standings. The Knicks are 14-56, three games behind the Sixers.
The Sixers face off with the Knicks and Lakers once more each before the season ends.
4. Injuries
Thomas Robinson (rib contusion) is probable. Jason Richardson (rest) is out. Tony Wroten (knee) and Joel Embiid (foot) are out indefinitely.
For the Kings, guard Darren Collison (core muscle surgery) remains sidelined. Forward Eric Moreland (shoulder) is out for the season.
5. This and that
• Noel leads all rookies in rebounds, steals and blocks.
• The Sixers have lost 15 straight road games.
• Sacramento has lost 11 of its last 13 matchups with the Sixers.
• Kings forward Rudy Gay ranks 13th in the NBA in scoring (21.0 points).
• The Sixers have won six straight games at Sleep Train Arena.
• The Kings are dead last in the NBA in assists per game (19.93).