Kings vs. Thunder: Sabonis, Dort Injury News
The Sacramento Kings are set to face the defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder in an NBA Cup game Friday at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento. The Kings are considered underdogs in this matchup.
This will be the second meeting between the teams in 11 days, following a 107-101 loss for the Kings in Oklahoma City. Reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 31 points, while Zach LaVine scored 23 for the Kings.
Injury Updates
- Domantas Sabonis of the Kings is listed as questionable due to a left ribcage contusion.
- Keegan Murray remains sidelined after surgery on his left thumb.
- Zach LaVine, who missed the previous game due to lower back soreness, is not on the injury report and is expected to play.
- For the Thunder, Luguentz Dort is questionable with a right upper trap strain.
- Out for the Thunder are Thomas Sorber (ACL surgery), Nikola Topic (testicular cancer), Aaron Wiggins (left adductor strain), Jalen Williams (right wrist surgery), and Kenrich Williams (left knee surgery).
Key Factors for the Game
The Kings managed a victory over the Golden State Warriors without LaVine and Sabonis, but against Oklahoma City, they will need their leading scorer’s full contribution.
"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 Kings currently hold a 3-5 record, while the Thunder have an impressive 8-1 start to the season.
Summary
Injuries to key players on both teams will shape the NBA Cup battle, with Sacramento relying on LaVine’s scoring and Oklahoma City missing multiple contributors.
Author’s note: The Kings face a tough challenge against the Thunder, with health and performance of key players likely deciding the outcome.
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