Houston Rockets vs Sacramento Kings Preview

April 14, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Rockets shooting guard James Harden (13) in action against the Sacramento Kings in the third quarter at the Toyota Center. The Rockets defeated the Kings 121-100. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

The Houston Rockets look to snap their skid over the Sacramento Kings as they come to Toyota Center Wednesday night. Here are the keys to a win:

Terrence Jones Injury Status

Jones is officially listed as a game-time decision. The 2nd-year forward practiced Tuesday, but didn’t take part in contact drills.

“I feel OK,” Jones said. “I am going to keep getting treatment all day and tomorrow and hopefully will be able to play again as soon as I can.”

Meanwhile, Francisco Garcia, Greg Smith, and Omer Asik will all be out.

Individual Defense

When asked why the Rockets have struggled so much against the Kings, who’s won the first two meetings this season, Dwight Howard simply said:

“They play a lot of one-on-one. We have to be able to defend our guys.”

Patrick Beverley’s return may have an impact, as it was clear on Monday night when he returned to the lineup that his defensive intensity became contagious for the rest of the team.

Dwight Must Hold His On

It’s odd to say that a player with such as caliber like Dwight Howard must match up to his opponent’s level. Well, that’s the case with DeMarcus Cousins, who has went off in the first two meetings. Cousins put up 21 points and 10 rebounds in the first meeting, and 17 points and 16 rebounds in the second. Howard is coming off of a 24 point, 12 rebound performance, and must continue to establish himself on the low post for the Rockets to come out with a win.

Tip: 7 PM CT

TV: CSN Houston