Kings’ Sabonis undergoes season-ending knee surgery

The Lithuanian big man previously attempted to rehabilitate non-surgically, briefly returning to action, but recurring complications ultimately made the operation unavoidable. Despite generating significant external interest before the recent trade deadline, Sacramento chose to keep him. Over 19 games, Sabonis averaged 15.8 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in roughly 30 minutes. However, the injury clearly hindered his performance, evidenced by his PER dropping to 18.7 from last season’s 22.6. He remains under contract through 2027-28, solidifying his status as a core piece of the organization's future.

Consequently, the Kings, who currently possess the NBA’s worst record, have shifted complete focus toward the lottery. They are now mathematically guaranteed at least the fifth overall pick in June’s Draft, looking to add talent alongside their recovering star center.