Andrew Bogut has regained his mojo, but Brad Newley says the Sydney Kings will need a team effort if they are to beat defending NBL premiers Melbourne United on enemy territory this Saturday.
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Bogut produced his best effort of the season last week when he tallied 17 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists, and five blocks in a 100-87 win over New Zealand.
The Kings' fifth win from their past six games lifted them into third spot on the NBL ladder with a 5-3 record.
Melbourne (8-3) sit in second spot, and beat the Kings 77-70 when the two teams locked horns earlier this month.
Bogut's match-up with United centre Josh Boone is set to play a key role in the outcome of the rematch.
But Newley said the Kings needed an even spread to get over the top of United.
"We can't get so stuck into the match-ups," Newley said.
"We'll beat them as a team, I don't think you'll beat them individually. We've got to help him (Bogut), and he's got to help us."
The Kings are still sweating on the fitness of two-time MVP Kevin Lisch, who missed the win over NZ after injuring his jaw in a training mishap.
Newley enjoyed his day off on Monday, but is now fully focused on taking down United.
"I chilled at home with the family and ... had a tea party with my daughter in the afternoon, so I had a busy day (on Monday)," Newley said.
"It was a good victory (over NZ), and we are moving on to bigger things now.
"Today we're back into practice, guys going at each other - no foots off the pedal or anything like that."
Australian Associated Press
