Bad news for the Kings regarding Domantas Sabonis' injury

The Sacramento Kings will continue without Domantas Sabonis for an extended period. The Lithuanian center will remain sidelined for an additional four to five weeks as he continues to recover from a partial meniscus tear in his left knee, the franchise reported this Saturday.

Sabonis has not played a game since November 16, and his absence has coincided with one of the most challenging stretches of the season for Sacramento. In the 13 games that the three-time All-Star has missed, the Kings have a poor record of 3 wins and 10 losses.

Initially, the team classified the issue as minor discomfort in his left knee, causing Sabonis to miss the game on November 19. However, subsequent studies revealed the meniscus tear that has kept him off the court for over a month.

The 2025-26 season has been marked by physical setbacks for the 28-year-old big man. Even before the regular season began, Sabonis missed the first game due to a hamstring strain suffered in the preseason, and in early November, he was also absent for two games due to rib discomfort.

This contrasts with his recent durability record in Sacramento, where he played 79, 82, and 70 games in the three previous seasons. Before his injury, he was averaging 17.2 points and 12.3 rebounds in 11 games, maintaining his status as one of the league's most consistent centers. In fact, he led the NBA in rebounds in each of the last three seasons.

A team without its central pillar

His absence has left a noticeable void in the Kings' system, especially in an extremely competitive Western Conference. Sacramento currently holds a record of 6-21, in 14th place in the West, making the playoff race increasingly uphill.

Amid this context, an unexpected opportunity has arisen for rookie Maxime Raynaud, selected in the second round of the draft. Since Sabonis' injury, Raynaud is averaging 9.6 points and 5.1 rebounds, figures that rise to 16.3 points and 7.5 rebounds in his last eight games.

According to medical timelines, Sabonis' return could occur by late January or early February, a date that the Kings consider crucial in their attempt to salvage a season that has fallen well below initial expectations.

Meanwhile, Sacramento remains active in the trade market, with several significant names —including Sabonis, Zach LaVine, and DeMar DeRozan— being discussed around the league.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Malas noticias en los Kings respecto a la lesión de Domantas Sabonis