Sacramento Kings star Domantas Sabonis suffered a hamstring injury during the preseason. It was initially unclear how long he would be out, but Sabonis only ended up missing one regular season contest. The big man returned on Friday, helping Sacramento win its first game of the year. Sabonis turned in a 12-point, 12-rebound double-double as the Kings defeated the Utah Jazz 105-104. A recent update on Sabonis' status will give Kings fans even more optimism.
Sabonis is not listed on the Kings' injury report for Sunday night's game against the Los Angeles Lakers. The fact that he is completely off the injury report is unquestionably huge news. It is not uncommon for players to return from injuries but still land on injury reports as questionable or probable as they continue to recover. Sabonis' complete absence from the injury report suggests he is ready to go and shouldn't be bothered by possible lingering effects of the injury.
There are three players listed on the Kings' injury report, however. Nique Clifford (right hamstring strain) and Keegan Murray (left thumb UCL injury recovery) are both listed as out. Meanwhile, Zach LaVine -- who is dealing with an illness -- is currently listed as questionable to play.
Domantas Sabonis looking to lead Kings to win over Lakers
Upsetting the talented Lakers will prove to be a challenge -- especially if LaVine is unable to go. Sabonis' injury update will give fans confidence heading into the matchup, though. When healthy, Sabonis is one of the best all-around big men in the league.
The veteran is no stranger to recording double-doubles. A three-time All-star, Sabonis has averaged 16.1 points and 10.7 rebounds per outing for his entire career. He has also led the league in rebounding on three separate occasions. Sabonis is an extremely reliable star despite often being underrated. Although he does not receive enough attention, the Kings understand how valuable Sabonis is to their roster.
Earning a victory against the Lakers early in the season would feel like a statement of sorts for a Sacramento squad that is looking to prove the doubters wrong. At best, the Kings have been regarded as a fringe play-in team. Many experts aren't even sure if the Kings will reach the play-in tournament at all. Playing well against the Lakers and improving to 2-1 would be a tremendous way to build early season momentum, however.
Domantas Sabonis will look to lead the Kings to a big victory at 9 PM EST in Sacramento.