Kings Suffer Major Blows: Sabonis and LaVine Both Ruled Out for Season
The Sacramento Kings’ already challenging 2025-26 season has taken a significant turn for the worse, with both Domantas Sabonis and Zach LaVine sidelined for the remainder of the year due to injuries. The news, confirmed by ESPN’s Shams Charania on Wednesday, deals a devastating blow to the Kings’ hopes for improvement.
Sabonis Undergoes Knee Surgery
Star big man Domantas Sabonis will undergo surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee, effectively ending his season. According to Sports Illustrated, Sabonis initially suffered the injury earlier in the year and attempted to play through the pain before ultimately deciding on surgery. He appeared in just eight of Sacramento’s 15 games leading into the All-Star break, averaging 24.9 minutes per game.
Despite the injury, Sabonis maintained averages of 15.8 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in 19 games (15 starts) this season. HoopsRumors notes that Sabonis had previously attempted non-surgical treatment for the meniscus tear, returning to action in mid-January, but the injury proved persistent.
LaVine to Have Hand Surgery
Adding to the Kings’ woes, All-Star guard Zach LaVine will also miss the rest of the season after undergoing surgery to repair a tendon tear in his right fifth finger. Basketnews.com reports the surgery took place on Wednesday.
LaVine led the team in scoring with 19.2 points per game before the All-Star break. Sporting News highlights that both players were rumored to be available at the trade deadline, but the Kings ultimately chose not to create any moves.
Kings Face Difficult Finish
With Sabonis and LaVine out, the Kings are left with a 12-44 record, the worst in the Western Conference. Sports Illustrated reports the team will now focus on navigating the final 26 games of the season and positioning themselves for a favorable outcome in the 2026 NBA draft lottery. Sacramento currently has strong odds of securing a top-three pick in what is expected to be a loaded draft class.
Forward Keegan Murray is expected to return to the lineup soon, having recovered from a sprained ankle, but his return won’t fully offset the loss of two key players.