Kings vs. Thunder: Sabonis, Dort Injury Updates; 3 Keys to NBA Cup Game
The Sacramento Kings are set to face the defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder in an NBA Cup game at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento. The Kings will be underdogs in this matchup, marking their second meeting in 11 days after a 107-101 loss in Oklahoma City.
Recent Game Recap
In their previous encounter, reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 31 points, while Zach LaVine topped the Kings with 23 points. The Kings hold a 3-5 record this season, and the Thunder are 8-1.
Injury Reports
- Sacramento Kings: Domantas Sabonis is questionable due to a left ribcage contusion. Keegan Murray remains out after thumb surgery. Zach LaVine is expected to play despite missing the recent win over the Golden State Warriors because of lower back soreness.
- Oklahoma City Thunder: Luguentz Dort is questionable with a right upper trap strain. Thomas Sorber (ACL surgery), Nikola Topic (testicular cancer), Aaron Wiggins (left adductor strain), Jalen Williams (right wrist surgery), and Kenrich Williams (left knee surgery) are sidelined.
Three Keys to the Game
- The Kings managed to win against the Warriors without LaVine and Sabonis, but will need their leading scorer against the Thunder.
- Zach LaVine is currently averaging 27.4 points per game, matching his career high from 2020-21, and shooting a career-best 51.6% from the field.
- Health and availability of key players like Sabonis and Dort could determine the game's outcome.
"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."
Both teams will look to leverage their strengths and stay healthy to secure a victory in this crucial NBA Cup encounter.
Author's summary: The Kings enter the NBA Cup game as underdogs against the Thunder, with key players' health and LaVine's scoring form crucial to their chances.