UPDATE: The Sacramento Kings have just announced that All-Star center Domantas Sabonis will be sidelined for at least one week due to a Grade 1 hamstring strain. This injury means he will miss the Kings’ first two regular season games, raising concerns for the team’s early season performance.
Sabonis sustained the injury during a preseason matchup against the Los Angeles Clippers last Wednesday night. After leaving the game, he underwent testing and did not participate in the preseason finale on Friday. The Kings confirmed that Sabonis will be unavailable for their crucial season opener against the Phoenix Suns on October 25, 2023, as well as their home opener against the Utah Jazz on October 27, 2023.
While the Kings describe the strain as minor, the absence of Sabonis is a significant blow to the team. The earliest he could return is for a home game on October 29 against the Los Angeles Lakers. The Kings are already grappling with another setback, as fourth-year power forward Keegan Murray is expected to miss at least a month due to a torn UCL in his left thumb.
In light of these injuries, the Kings have been testing various lineups during the preseason. Second-year center Isaac Jones, along with veterans Dario Saric and Drew Eubanks, have stepped in to fill the gaps left by Sabonis and Murray. As the Kings look to start the season strong, their depth will be put to the test without two key contributors.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the Kings navigate these early challenges. With the season fast approaching, the pressure is on for the team to adapt quickly and secure wins in their absence.