Keegan Murray’s Injury Update
In a disappointing turn for the Sacramento Kings, Keegan Murray has been sidelined for a minimum of two weeks due to a mild ankle sprain, as confirmed by the team’s announcement on Friday. An MRI revealed the extent of the injury, and he is set for a reevaluation following this period. With just 21 games left in what has proven to be a challenging season for the Kings, currently holding a dismal record of 14-47, there is speculation that the young player might be shut down for the remainder of the season.
Murray’s Challenging Season
Murray, 25, has endured a tumultuous year characterized by injuries, participating in only 23 games. His struggles included various ailments such as calf and back issues, a torn UCL that cost him 15 games, and another left ankle sprain that previously ruled him out for 20 contests until his recent return. His latest injury occurred while attempting to contest a shot during the game against the Houston Rockets on Wednesday, causing him to leave after only nine minutes of play.
Impact on the Team
The Kings faced the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday without Murray and a few other key players, including Zach LaVine (who has a torn tendon in his finger), Domantas Sabonis (with a torn meniscus), and De’Andre Hunter (who had surgery for a detached retina). Russell Westbrook is also dealing with a right thigh contusion and can be considered day-to-day, while Malik Monk has been managing a sore right ankle but played in the recent matchup.
Performance Overview
In his limited appearances this season, Murray has averaged 14 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game—the second-best scoring average in his career. However, his three-point shooting has dipped significantly to 27%, the lowest rate in his four seasons in the league. This downturn in performance coincides with a franchise record stretch where the Kings lost 16 consecutive games before recently winning two out of their last three matches.
Future Outlook
As it stands, Sacramento not only holds the worst record in the NBA but also finds itself with a 14% chance of winning the upcoming NBA Draft Lottery, joining competitors such as the Brooklyn Nets and Indiana Pacers. Looking ahead, Murray is expected to play a pivotal role in the Kings’ future rebuild, having secured a five-year, $140 million contract extension through the 2030-31 season. Ironically, just a day prior to the announcement of his injury, Murray’s rookie record for three-pointers in a season was surpassed by Kon Knueppel of the Charlotte Hornets.
