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Mavericks hope for better performance vs. Kings

Feb 21, 2009 - 3:26 PM Sacramento (12-44) at Dallas (32-22), 9:00 p.m. EST

DALLAS (Ticker) -- After one of their worst offensive performances of the season, the Dallas Mavericks look to get back on track Saturday when they host the lowly Sacramento Kings.

Following three wins in four games, the Mavericks shot just 39.5 percent (34-of-86) from the field on Friday, dropping a 93-86 decision to the Houston Rockets.

All-Star Dirk Nowitzki was the epitome of Dallas' struggles, recording nine points - one more than his season low - and made only 4-of-18 of his shots from the floor after averaging 31.3 points during his previous four games.

With the loss, the Mavericks fell to 0-6 when failing to eclipse 90 points. However, Dallas shouldn't have a problem scoring against the Kings, who rank 29th in the NBA, allowing 108.8 points per game.

Sacramento snapped a six-game losing streak with a 115-106 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday and may have some new players in tow when it takes the court Saturday.

The Kings were busy ahead of Thursday's trade deadline, parting ways with Brad Miller, John Salmons, Shelden Williams and Bobby Brown in a pair of deals.

In return, Sacramento acquired Rashad McCants, Calvin Booth, Drew Gooden, Andres Nocioni and Ike Diogu, who could all make their debut in Dallas.