Kings vs. Thunder: Injury Updates and Game Preview
The Sacramento Kings will enter the NBA Cup game as clear underdogs against the defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder. The matchup will take place Friday at the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, marking their second meeting in just 11 days after a narrow 107-101 loss in Oklahoma City.
Previous Game Recap
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 31 points, while Zach LaVine was the top scorer for the Kings with 23 points. The Kings currently hold a 3-5 record this season.
Player Injury Reports
- Domantas Sabonis is listed as questionable with a left ribcage contusion.
- Keegan Murray remains out following surgery on his left thumb.
- Zach LaVine missed Wednesday’s win over the Warriors due to lower back soreness but is not currently on the injury report.
- For the Thunder (8-1), Luguentz Dort is questionable with a right upper trap strain.
- Several Thunder players are sidelined long-term: 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 Friday’s Game
- The Kings won against the Warriors without LaVine or Sabonis, who were crucial due to the absence of key Warriors players like Steph Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green.
- LaVine, averaging 27.4 points per game this season—matching his career high from 2020-21—and shooting a career-best 51.6% from the field, will be essential against Oklahoma City.
- The Kings will need strong contributions from their leaders to overcome the Thunder's deep and healthy roster.
"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, with an impressive 8-1 record, will look to capitalize on their advantage with Sabonis and Dort’s availability in question.
Author’s Summary
This NBA Cup matchup hinges on key player health and performance, with the Kings needing their stars at full strength to have a chance against the strong Thunder squad.