BREAKING: Sacramento Kings forward Keegan Murray is set to miss the start of the NBA season following a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his left thumb, sustained during a preseason game against the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday night. The team confirmed that Murray will undergo surgery, with a recovery timeline of four to six weeks, ruling him out for at least the first 10 games of the regular season.
This injury comes at a critical juncture for Murray, who is entering his fourth NBA season and is eligible for a contract extension by October 20. If the Kings and Murray cannot finalize an agreement before the deadline, he will enter restricted free agency next summer, adding pressure to both the player and the organization.
Murray has been a model of durability throughout his career, playing in 233 of a possible 246 games over his first three seasons, starting all but two. This UCL tear marks the most significant injury he has faced as a professional, affecting a Kings team that aims to secure a playoff position in the competitive Western Conference.
Without Murray, the Kings will be missing a key contributor known for his shooting ability, having made 543 career three-pointers, and his defensive skills, which have made him a trusted presence on the wing. The team is now evaluating options to fill his spot, with veteran forward Dario Saric, veteran guard Malik Monk, fourth-year guard Keon Ellis, and rookie Nique Clifford all potential candidates to step into the starting lineup.
As the Kings prepare for the season, they will look to other players, including expected starters Dennis Schroder, Zach LaVine, DeMar DeRozan, and Domantas Sabonis, to step up in Murray’s absence. The team is eager to build on last season’s momentum, but this injury complicates their plans.
Fans and analysts alike are keenly watching how the Kings will adapt to this sudden setback. With the regular season fast approaching, the implications of Murray’s injury could significantly affect the team’s performance and playoff aspirations.
Stay tuned for further updates on Murray’s recovery and the Kings’ roster adjustments as the season unfolds.
