Kings vs. Thunder: Sabonis, Dort Injury Updates; Three Keys to NBA Cup Game
The Sacramento Kings will host the defending NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento on Friday for an NBA Cup matchup. The Kings enter the game as significant underdogs and will face the Thunder for the second time in just 11 days, having lost 107-101 in Oklahoma City earlier in the season.
Injury Reports
- Domantas Sabonis is listed as questionable with a left rib contusion.
- Keegan Murray remains out following surgery on his left thumb.
- Zach LaVine, who missed Wednesday’s 121-116 win over the Golden State Warriors due to lower back soreness, is not on the latest injury report.
- For the Thunder, Luguentz Dort is questionable with a right upper trap strain.
- Oklahoma City is also missing Thomas Sorber (ACL surgery), Nikola Topic (testicular cancer), Aaron Wiggins (left adductor strain), Jalen Williams (right wrist surgery), and Kenrich Williams (left knee surgery).
Previous Matchup
In their last meeting, reigning MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 31 points to lead the Thunder, while Zach LaVine paced Sacramento with 23 points.
Keys to the Game
- The Kings will rely heavily on LaVine, who is averaging 27.4 points per game and shooting 51.6% from the field, both career-best numbers.
- Sabonis’s availability could be crucial for rebounding and interior defense against the physical Thunder frontcourt.
- Maintaining defensive discipline will be key as Oklahoma City continues to perform as one of the league’s most balanced teams.
“The Kings didn’t need LaVine and Sabonis to beat the Warriors with key players like Curry and Green out, but they’ll need their scoring leader against Oklahoma City.”
Match Context
The Kings hold a 3-5 record, while the Thunder stand at 8-1. Sacramento aims to build momentum after a close win over the Warriors, facing a more complete and dangerous Thunder squad in this Cup game.
Author’s Summary: Sacramento hosts Oklahoma City under tough odds, with injuries adding uncertainty as the Kings prepare to challenge the reigning champions’ depth and consistency.
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