Kings vs. Timberwolves: Sabonis Injury Update and 3 Keys to the Game
The Sacramento Kings prepare to face the Minnesota Timberwolves at Golden 1 Center. Kings center Domantas Sabonis has missed the last two games due to a left ribcage contusion sustained in Monday’s game against the Denver Nuggets. Sabonis is listed as questionable as the Kings enter the third game of a five-game homestand on Sunday.
The Kings currently hold a 3-6 record and recently lost 125-95 to the Oklahoma City Thunder in an NBA Cup match. They have yet to field a full roster this season, as Keegan Murray remains sidelined with a thumb injury. Other key players such as Zach LaVine, Malik Monk, and Nique Clifford have also missed games.
The Timberwolves, with a 5-4 record, come off a dominant 137-97 win over the Utah Jazz. Anthony Edwards has just returned after missing four games due to a hamstring injury.
Three Keys to Sunday’s Game
- The Kings need a strategy to contain Minnesota's leading scorers: Anthony Edwards and Julius Randle. Randle is averaging 25.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, 6.3 assists, and 1.1 steals, shooting 55.5% from the field and 42.6% from three-point range.
- Edwards averages 25.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists, with shooting splits of 51.2% from the field and 50% from beyond the arc.
- Oklahoma City capitalized on one of Sacramento’s major weaknesses by outscoring them 60-34 in the paint. The Kings rank 27th in the NBA in opponent points in the paint, allowing 54.9 per game.
"Kings center Domantas Sabonis has missed the past two games after suffering a left ribcage contusion."
"Randle averages 25.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, 6.3 assists and 1.1 steals while shooting 55.5% from the field and 42.6% from 3-point range."
"Oklahoma City exploited one of Sacramento’s biggest weaknesses on Friday, outscoring the Kings 60-34 on points in the paint."
Summary: The Kings must adapt on defense without Sabonis to stop Minnesota’s top scorers and improve their vulnerable paint defense to compete effectively at home.