Kings vs. Thunder: Injury Updates and Game Preview
The Sacramento Kings are set to play the Oklahoma City Thunder in an NBA Cup game at Golden 1 Center. The Kings enter as underdogs facing the defending NBA champions for the second time in 11 days after a close 107-101 loss in Oklahoma City.
Recent Matchup Recap
In the previous encounter, reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 31 points for the Thunder. Zach LaVine led the Kings with 23 points.
Injury Reports
- Domantas Sabonis is questionable with a left ribcage contusion.
- Keegan Murray remains sidelined following surgery on his left thumb.
- Zach LaVine missed the prior game due to lower back soreness but is not currently listed on the injury report.
- For the Thunder, Luguentz Dort is questionable with a right upper trap strain.
- Out players for the Thunder include Thomas Sorber (ACL surgery), Nikola Topic (testicular cancer), Aaron Wiggins (left adductor strain), Jalen Williams (right wrist surgery), and Kenrich Williams (left knee surgery).
Three Keys to the Game
- The Kings managed a win over the Warriors without LaVine and Sabonis, but will rely on LaVine’s scoring against Oklahoma City.
- LaVine is averaging 27.4 points per game, matching his career high from 2020-21, with a shooting percentage of 51.6% from the field.
- The Kings’ performance hinges on availability and contributions from key players amidst injury uncertainties.
“LaVine is averaging 27.4 points per game, matching his career high from 2020-21. He is shooting a career-high 51.6% from the field.”
The Thunder’s depth is challenged with multiple players out, affecting their roster stability.
Author’s Summary
Injuries play a crucial role in the Kings-Thunder NBA Cup clash, with both teams relying heavily on key players to tip the balance in this tightly contested matchup.