Kings Announce DeMar DeRozan Injury Update Vs. Suns

When the Sacramento Kings traveled to face the Phoenix Suns on Sunday, star sixth man Malik Monk left the game in the second quarter with an ankle injury as the Kings had to pull out an overtime win without him.

The Kings were able to pull out Sunday’s victory thanks to the clutch genes of All-Star forward DeMar DeRozan, but unfortunate news has hit Sacramento in Wednesday’s rematch between the two Pacific Division rivals.

The Kings have announced that DeRozan will not return for Wednesday’s matchup against the Suns after leaving the game with a strained back.

DeRozan was able to play 17 minutes in the first half, but did not return with the team to begin the second half. In the first half, DeRozan looked determined, attempting just two shots and making one, finishing his night with 2 points, 3 assists, 5 rebounds, 1 steal and 2 blocks.

Standout guard Keon Ellis started in DeRozan’s place to begin the second half. With Ellis in the lineup, the Kings definitely lose some size, but Ellis has proven to be one of the best young defenders in the NBA, so it could work out well.

The Kings took a five-point lead into halftime, largely due to the stellar play of All-Star guard De’Aaron Fox. With Monk and DeRozan both sidelined, that puts a lot of offensive responsibility on Fox, but it’s nothing he can’t handle.

If Sacramento can start their season series against the Suns with two straight wins, it would give the team a significant boost going forward, even if they are playing against a Phoenix team that is missing Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal.

DeRozan has been a complete stud for the Kings this season, so the team will have to hope their newest star can make a smooth recovery and return for Friday’s NBA Cup Group Play game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

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