De’Aaron Fox leaves game and fails to return with abdominal tightness
By Tyler Watts
De’Aaron Fox exited the Jan. 23 game against the Orlando Magic with abdominal tightness and did not return. We examine that news and who steps if Fox is out.
De’Aaron Fox appeared to be taking over the Sacramento Kings point guard duties in the present and future, but an injury could derail that in the short-term. George Hill is likely to be suiting up for another squad by Feb. 8 leaving Fox as the man and lead ball handler. I believe Fox is ready and could see a bit of breakout second half. Hopefully, that did not all get ruined in Tuesday’s game. The Kings finally broke their losing streak but lost their prized rookie in the process. Below is a Tweet from Jason Jones about the injury.
De'Aaron Fox (abdominal tightness) is questionable to return
— Jason Jones (@mr_jasonjones) January 24, 2018
What the news means
Questionable turned into Fox not returning to the game. There have been no updates on the severity as of this writing, but Jones also mentioned that Fox had the issue pregame as well. He chose to play through it and perhaps that turns out to be a poor decision. Stay tuned for updates.
The Kings next play on Thursday against the Miami Heat. Consider Fox questionable for that game until we get an update.
Related Story: Kings rumors: 6 possible landing spots for George Hill
Who steps up?
If the rookie has to miss time, do not expect George Hill to play monster minutes. The Kings appear set on trading him. The point duties will then fall to two combo guards. Frank Mason is still out meaning Bogdan Bogdanovic and Garrett Temple will have to handle the ball for Sacramento until Fox returns. It led to a monster night for Temple against the Magic, and it could allow us to see a side of Bogdanovic’s play we have not yet seen for the Kings. Expect those two to step up in a significant way if Fox misses time.
Final thoughts
Tuesday was a bittersweet night for Kings fans. They won breaking an eight-game losing streak, but the Fox injury and them failing to have an All-Star put a damper on the parade. Stay tuned for more information on Fox’s injury.
Next: Kings rumors: 3 possible landing spots for Zach Randolph
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