Kings Face Thunder with Key Players Out for NBA Cup Clash

SACRAMENTO, California — The Sacramento Kings are preparing to face the Oklahoma City Thunder in an NBA Cup matchup on Friday night, coming off a win over the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday.

Both teams will be missing key players due to injuries. Kings forward Keegan Murray has yet to make his season debut after surgery on his thumb. He is set to remain out against the Thunder. Additionally, star center Domantas Sabonis is listed as questionable with a left ribcage contusion. Sabonis has already missed two games this season, including the recent victory against the Warriors.

The Kings are currently struggling with frontcourt depth, making Sabonis’ potential absence a concern against the Thunder, who started the season strong with eight consecutive wins before losing to the Portland Trail Blazers on Wednesday.

“It’s tough when we’re missing key players, but the team has to step up,” Kings coach said during a press conference. “We can’t let injuries derail us.”

On the other side, the Thunder will also be without All-Star forward Jalen Williams, who is recovering from right wrist surgery. Oklahoma City has ruled out several others, including Thomas Sorber (ACL surgery), Nikola Topic (surgery recovery), Aaron Wiggins (adductor strain), and Kenrich Williams (knee surgery).

Star defender Lu Dort is questionable, which could affect the Thunder’s defensive strategy. “He’s a key part of our game plan,” said Thunder coach. “We hope to have him, but we’ll be ready either way.”

The Kings will rely on players such as Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and former Thunder star Russell Westbrook to step up in this important game. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. PT at Golden 1 Center, and the matchup is part of the ongoing NBA Cup competition.

While both teams navigate their injury woes, all eyes will be on Thunder’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who scored 35 points in the recent loss. “He’s a phenomenal talent, and we’ll have to contain him,” said Kings’ backup. The game promises to be a competitive showdown as both teams fight for positioning in the Western Conference.