As the Sacramento Kings' current slide continued after a loss to the Bucks, things still got worse. Both Keegan Murray and Keon Ellis left the game early due to injuries. If either turns out to be long-term, Sacramento is going to have some big decisions to make on how they move forward.
After being on the shelf for several games, Zach LaVine returned to the Kings' lineup in time to take on Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Bucks. The irony of that is Milwaukee is one of the most likely destinations for LaVine if Sacramento finally manages to engineer a trade for the shooter.
Yet another Kings' blowout loss wasn't the big story last night, mainly because it happens all the time. The main topic of conversation was the injuries to Keegan Murray and Keon Ellis. To be fair, injuries on the Kings' roster happen pretty much every game at this point. It's getting crazy.
Murray had to leave the game in the third quarter thanks to a left ankle injury. If that's not enough, Ellis only played five minutes before having to head to the back with a left thumb injury. Neither situation is good for a Kings team that is already on the ropes this season.
What is happening in Sacramento?
So far, there have been no updates regarding the status of either player. Considering Murray is dealing with an ankle injury, an extended absence wouldn't be a surprise depending on the severity. Damage to ankles is serious business in the NBA, and a major issue can shut down a season.
The Ellis situation could be an equally big problem. Murray sustained a thumb injury in the preseason that required surgery and caused him to miss several games. If Keon is in a similar situation, he could end up on the shelf for a few weeks, as well. Plus, Domantas Sabonis is still injured.
If all three players are out, this could be an opportunity to recall Dylan Cardwell from the G League. The Kings have been missing his defense, specifically his rim protection. This also creates a window to get Devin Carter more minutes on the court, which he desperately needs to develop.
In the meantime, LaVine will likely slide back into the starting rotation, though the Kings should consider working Nique Clifford in, as well. All of this is assuming no one else gets injured, which could easily happen given how terribly the 2025-2025 season is going.