Kings announce DeMar DeRozan injury update vs. Suns

When the Sacramento Kings took on the Phoenix Suns on Sunday, star sixth man Malik Monk left 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 claim victory on Sunday thanks to the grip gene of All-Star forward DeMar DeRozan, but unfortunate news hit Sacramento in Wednesday’s rematch between the two Pacific Division rivals.

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

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

Standout defensive back Keon Ellis started in DeRozan’s place early in the second half. With Ellis in the lineup, the Kings certainly 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 at halftime, thanks largely to a great performance from All-Star guard De’Aaron Fox. With both Monk and DeRozan out, Fox will be given a lot of offensive responsibility, but it’s nothing he can’t handle.

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

DeRozan has been a hit for the Kings this season, so the team will have to hope their newest star recovers without issue and returns for Friday’s NBA Cup group stage game against the Minnesota Timberwolves.

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