The Sacramento Kings, currently holding the 7th seed in the Western Conference with a record of 37-27, are striving to avoid the play-in tournament. Despite maintaining a relatively steady winning percentage of 6-4 in their last 10 games, they have fluctuated between the 4th and 7th seeds in recent months. Spearheaded by De’Aaron Fox, Domantas Sabonis, and Malik Monk, their potent offense has posed challenges for the Lakers in previous encounters. However, ahead of their upcoming game, the Kings may face adversity with two starters potentially sidelined: Kevin Huerter due to a leg issue, and Keegan Murray nursing an ankle injury.
According to CBS Sports, Huerter’s availability for the game remains uncertain, while Murray’s absence in the team’s recent matchup against Milwaukee hints at a potentially more severe injury. The potential absence of either player would significantly impact Sacramento, as they are regarded as key contributors on both ends of the court, providing consistent offensive output while also contributing defensively. Furthermore, their absence could affect the team’s spacing, particularly as guard Keon Ellis, who filled in for one of them in the previous game, is considered a less proficient shooter, albeit still a viable option.
Further updates on their status are awaited, but the absence of either Huerter or Murray would pose a considerable challenge for the Lakers, who are in need of all available assistance against a team that has historically troubled them, akin to the Nuggets’ impact on their performance.
