Kings Bench Four Starters Due to Injuries Against Mavericks

The Sacramento Kings face a challenging road ahead as they prepare to play the Dallas Mavericks. Following a significant loss to the Houston Rockets, the Kings will enter this second game of a back-to-back under serious pressure due to injuries. Four of their five regular starters will be unavailable for this matchup.

Kings Bench Four Starters Due to Injuries Against Mavericks

This season, the Kings have yet to field their full starting lineup. If fully healthy, their starting five would comprise Russell Westbrook, Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, Keegan Murray, and Domantas Sabonis. Unfortunately, numerous injuries have decimated the team.

Current Injury Report

• Russell Westbrook – OUT (right thigh contusion)
• Zach LaVine – OUT (right fifth finger tendon repair)
• DeAndre Hunter – OUT (left eye retinal repair)
• Keegan Murray – OUT (left ankle sprain)
• Domantas Sabonis – OUT (left knee meniscus repair)
• Dylan Cardwell – OUT (left ankle sprain)
• Malik Monk – QUESTIONABLE (right ankle soreness)

This situation leaves DeMar DeRozan as the only starter available to take the court. DeRozan has shown remarkable durability this season, playing in all 60 games so far.

With many key players sidelined, the Kings are expected to start a lineup featuring Nique Clifford, Precious Achiuwa, Maxime Raynaud, and DeMar DeRozan, with either Devin Carter, Killian Hayes, or Daeqwon Plowden rounding out the team.

Mavericks’ Injury Challenges

The Dallas Mavericks are not in a much better position regarding injuries as they welcome the Kings. Notable absences include Kyrie Irving, who will miss the entire 2025-26 season, along with rookie Cooper Flagg, who is out following a left midfoot sprain.

Mavericks Injury Report

• Kyrie Irving – OUT (left knee surgery)
• Cooper Flagg – OUT (left midfoot sprain)
• Dereck Lively II – OUT (right foot surgery)
• P.J. Washington – OUT (left ankle sprain)
• Daniel Gafford – DOUBTFUL (right ankle injury management)
• Khris Middleton – PROBABLE (right shoulder stinger)

This matchup will be intriguing due to the respective teams’ injury woes. The Mavericks may see Marvin Bagley III make his first start with the team, showcasing his potential after joining Dallas.

The Kings and Mavericks are scheduled to tip off at 5:30 p.m. PT in Dallas. Both teams need to adapt quickly to their changing rosters, making every moment on the court vital for their season prospects.