Kings vs. Thunder: Sabonis, Dort Injury Updates and 3 Keys to NBA Cup Game
The Sacramento Kings will face the defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder in an NBA Cup game Friday at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento. The Kings enter as underdogs after losing to the Thunder 107-101 in Oklahoma City 11 days ago.
In that matchup, reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 31 points to lead the Thunder, while Zach LaVine was the top scorer for the Kings with 23 points.
Injury Reports
- Domantas Sabonis is listed as questionable with a left ribcage contusion for the Kings.
- Keegan Murray remains sidelined after surgery on his left thumb.
- Zach LaVine missed the previous game against the Golden State Warriors due to lower back soreness but is not currently on the injury report.
- For the Thunder, Luguentz Dort is questionable because of a right upper trap strain.
- Several Thunder players are out due to significant injuries:
- Thomas Sorber (ACL surgery)
- Nikola Topic (testicular cancer)
- Aaron Wiggins (left adductor strain)
- Jalen Williams (right wrist surgery)
- Kenrich Williams (left knee surgery)
Three Keys to the Game
The Kings managed to defeat the Warriors without LaVine and Sabonis, who were absent due to injuries, but they will need their leading scorer in the game against Oklahoma City.
"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."
This offensive production will be crucial against the Thunder’s strong lineup.
Summary
The Kings face a tough challenge against the Thunder, with injury questions surrounding key players, and will rely heavily on LaVine's scoring to improve their record in this NBA Cup matchup.
Author’s note: The game hinges on the availability of Sabonis and Dort, and LaVine’s scoring efficiency remains a pivotal factor for the Kings’ chances.