Sacramento Kings head into another crucial Western Conference test carrying significant injury concerns as they prepare to face the Minnesota Timberwolves once again.
Due to the NBA Cup scheduling format, this matchup marks the fourth meeting between the two teams already this season, an unusual early-season stretch that has tested Sacramento’s depth and resilience.
Sacramento Kings searching for answers amid tough stretch
Sacramento has struggled to find consistency, losing six of its last seven games. Despite the recent slide, Kings can take some confidence from their previous overtime victory against Minnesota, a game that showcased their ability to compete even when undermanned. However, repeating that performance will be a challenge given the growing list of unavailable players.
The most impactful absence remains Domantas Sabonis. The three-time All-Star continues to recover from a left knee partial meniscus tear and has been officially ruled out once again.
Sunday’s contest will mark Sabonis’ 12th consecutive missed game, a prolonged absence that has left a noticeable void in Sacramento’s interior presence, rebounding, and playmaking.
Frontcourt depth severely tested
Sacramento’s problems in the paint extend beyond Sabonis. Backup center Drew Eubanks has also been ruled out with a left thumb avulsion fracture, further thinning an already depleted frontcourt rotation.
Without their top two centers, Sacramento Kings are forced to rely on smaller lineups and improvised solutions against a Timberwolves team known for its physicality.
The lack of size has been a recurring issue during this difficult stretch, placing additional strain on Sacramento’s perimeter defenders and forcing role players into unfamiliar responsibilities.
Uncertainty in the backcourt
Kings’ injury report also casts doubt over key guard depth. Dennis Schroder is listed as doubtful due to a right hip flexor strain, while Keon Ellis remains questionable with right wrist soreness.
If either or both guards are unable to suit up, Sacramento’s rotation could be stretched even thinner, particularly against Minnesota’s aggressive defensive schemes.
The potential absence of multiple guards complicates Sacramento’s game-planning, limiting lineup flexibility and increasing the burden on the remaining healthy contributors.
Sacramento Kings and Timberwolves are scheduled to tip off in Sacramento at 4:00 p.m. PT on Sunday. With injuries mounting and depth under pressure, Sacramento faces another stern test as it looks to halt its recent slide and rediscover momentum.