Domantas Sabonis Out For Kings’ First Two Games With Hamstring Injury

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Sacramento Kings announced Saturday that All-Star center Domantas Sabonis will miss their first two regular season games due to a Grade 1 hamstring strain. Sabonis sustained the injury during a preseason game against the Los Angeles Clippers on October 15, when he left the court after the team’s 109-91 loss.

An MRI revealed the strain, which the team considers minor, but Sabonis is still expected to be sidelined for the King’s season opener against the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday and their home opener against the Utah Jazz next Friday. The earliest he could return is for a matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday, Oct. 26.

This injury adds to the Kings’ challenges, as fourth-year power forward Keegan Murray is also unavailable due to a torn UCL in his left thumb, which will keep him out for at least a month. In response to these injuries, the team has been experimenting with second-year center and veterans to fill in during the preseason.

Sabonis has been a standout player for the Kings, leading the NBA in rebounding for the past three seasons and averaging 19.1 points, 13.9 rebounds, and 6 assists per game last season. His absence will put pressure on the team’s depth as they prepare to start the new season without two key players.

The Kings plan to reassess Sabonis’ condition in a week.