Rajon Rondo will be rested for Thursday's game against the Timberwolves.

Rondo will be rested for Thursday's game against the Timberwolves.

Analysis:

Rondo, among other Kings regulars, has been rested periodically down the stretch, but he was initially expected to play in Thursday's home tilt. Ultimately, that won't be the case, and the Kings will also rest All-Star center DeMarcus Cousins as they not-so-stealthily attempt to improve their lottery odds. In Rondo's absence, expect Darren Collison to see increased minutes and production as the most likely candidate to start at point guard.