Sacramento Kings and Boston Celtics open their 2026 calendars with vastly different momentum, but both teams enter Thursday night’s matchup dealing with notable injury concerns.
As the Kings look to reset after a difficult close to 2025, availability will play a major role against a Celtics squad that has exceeded expectations despite missing its biggest star.
Kings continue to battle major injuries
Sacramento’s struggles this season have been heavily influenced by health issues, and that trend continues into the New Year.
Kings will once again be without two foundational pieces, leaving their rotation significantly weakened against one of the Eastern Conference’s top teams.
Sacramento Kings Injury Report:
Zach LaVine – OUT (left ankle sprain)
Domantas Sabonis – OUT (left knee partial meniscus tear)
Sabonis’ prolonged absence has been especially damaging, depriving Sacramento of its primary interior presence and offensive hub.
LaVine’s continued absence further limits scoring options, forcing the Kings to rely on a short-handed lineup against elite competition.
Sitting at 8-25, Sacramento has yet to field a fully healthy roster this season. Combined with one of the league’s most demanding schedules, injuries have made it difficult to accurately assess the team’s true ceiling. Still, the Kings will be eager to show resilience at home as they attempt to start 2026 on a more positive note.
Celtics holding firm without Jayson Tatum
Boston arrives in Sacramento in a far stronger position, owning a 20-12 record and sitting third in the Eastern Conference. That success has come despite Jayson Tatum not yet appearing this season as he continues his recovery.
Boston Celtics Injury Report:
Jayson Tatum – OUT (right Achilles repair)
Chris Boucher – QUESTIONABLE (personal reasons)
While Tatum’s absence is significant, Boston has proven capable of winning without him. Jaylen Brown, Derrick White, and the supporting cast have maintained consistency, helping the Celtics win five of their last six games.
Injury outlook shapes the matchup
Thursday’s contest presents a sharp contrast. Sacramento remains undermanned and searching for answers, while Boston has found stability despite missing its franchise player.
Sacramento Kings may have the home-court advantage, but without LaVine and Sabonis, they face an uphill battle against a disciplined Boston Celtics team that continues to find ways to win.
Tip-off is set for 7:00 p.m. PT in Sacramento, where health and depth could once again define the outcome.