SACRAMENTO, Calif. — This is what it all comes down to... the Kings are taking on the New Orleans Pelicans Friday night for a chance at the playoffs. A loss here would end their season.
"I think the Kings will end up winning. I think the Kings will finish it off," said Kings fan, Eli Pitts.
The energy is felt by the fans and businesses hosting watch parties for the away game.
"A lot of hype, a lot of energy following this game. It's a do-or-die for the Kings. I mean as well for the Pelicans, but we're very excited for this game and hopefully we can move forward with it," said Tom's Watch Bar operating partner Joe Ortiz.
Tom's Watch Bar prides itself on delivering an experience they hope makes fans feel like they are at the game. Barwest over in midtown also plans on also having a full house.
"It gets super, super packed in here. It turns more into like a club environment, I would say. We have a bunch of TVs, a huge big screen, so that's definitely where you come to watch the game," said bartender Sage Smith.
The game holds weight not only for the fans but the businesses depending on them, too.
"It's very important, not only just for the team itself, but for the businesses around. If they were to move forward, that'll mean a lot. A few more home games, that'll obviously bring more business to the area," said Ortiz.
"Oh 100%. There's way more traction now just because the Kings are doing better. It's definitely made Sac more of a spot... the Kings getting better has helped business," said Smith.
They're hoping for a big win and a celebration that'll follow for more games to come.
"Whenever the Kings are winning a game, or whenever they're in the playoffs, Sacramento is just blowing up, like everybody's having a good time. Everybody's happy. Nobody's really mad at anything because the Kings represent Sacramento fully," said Kings fan, Mateo Martinez.
Friday's game starts around 6:30 p.m. but bars say the best time to get to a table is around 5 p.m. when things are a little slower.
WATCH MORE ON ABC10: Sacramento Kings hope to get payback over the New Orleans Pelicans, realize upcoming challenge
