Denver Nuggets continue their Western Conference road trip on Thursday night, heading into Sacramento Kings with momentum and a 17-6 record. Fresh off a commanding win over the Charlotte Hornets, Denver now faces a Kings squad in need of a turnaround, entering the matchup at 6-18. While both teams look to secure a crucial mid-December victory, injuries on both sides will heavily influence the rotations heading into tip-off.
Nuggets aim to extend strong start despite key absences
Denver arrives in Sacramento after an impressive performance in Charlotte, powered by Nikola Jokic’s near-triple-double line of 28 points, nine rebounds and 11 assists. Jamal Murray also delivered a standout outing with 34 points and five assists, highlighting the team’s growing offensive rhythm.
However, Denver Nuggets will once again be without multiple core contributors. Aaron Gordon has been ruled out as he continues recovering from a right hamstring strain suffered late last month. His return is not expected until January, leaving Denver without one of its most versatile two-way pieces.
With Gordon sidelined, Peyton Watson is expected to remain in the starting lineup, while Spencer Jones and Tim Hardaway Jr. are likely to maintain expanded roles on the wing. The team’s forward depth will also remain thin with Christian Braun ruled out due to a left ankle sprain, while Julian Strawther continues to sit with lower-back injury management.
Despite the absences, Denver’s core has kept the team atop the conference standings, and Thursday’s matchup presents another opportunity to build on that momentum.
Kings enter shorthanded as LaVine, Sabonis sit
Sacramento Kings, struggling to find consistency at 6-18, face an even steeper challenge with several major setbacks. Zach LaVine has been ruled out due to right thumb soreness, sidelining him for the first time since November 12. His absence removes one of Sacramento’s primary scoring threats during an already difficult stretch.
The Kings will also be without Domantas Sabonis, who remains out as he recovers from a partially torn meniscus. Without their starting center, Sacramento loses its most impactful interior presence on both ends of the floor.
Adding to their concerns, Dennis Schroder is listed as doubtful with a right hip flexor strain and is not expected to suit up. In their place, Sacramento is likely to elevate Keon Ellis, Malik Monk and Nique Clifford into larger roles as they attempt to counter Denver’s depth and star power.
Denver Nuggets and Kings meet Thursday night in Sacramento Kings, with action beginning at 10:00 p.m. EST.