Kings' Injury-Depleted Lineup Faces Jazz

Sacramento sits key players, giving young roster a chance to shine in tank battle.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The Sacramento Kings have listed several key players out for their upcoming game against the Utah Jazz, including Domantas Sabonis, Russell Westbrook, De'Andre Hunter, Zach LaVine, Malik Monk, and Keegan Murray. With their best players sidelined, the Kings will turn to a lineup of lesser-known young players like Nique Clifford, Maxime Raynaud, Dylan Cardwell, and Devin Carter to take on the Jazz, who are also looking to lose games and improve their draft position.

Why it matters

The Kings currently have the worst record in the NBA, putting them in prime position for a top draft pick. By sitting their star players, the Kings are prioritizing their long-term rebuild over short-term success, even if it means losing more games in the immediate future.

The details

The Kings have cited various injuries and ailments as the reasons for their star players' absences, including Sabonis' knee issues, Westbrook's ankle problems, and LaVine's tendon injury. With their veteran core sidelined, the Kings will give their young, unproven players an opportunity to showcase their skills against another team in tank mode, the Utah Jazz.

  • The Kings' game against the Jazz is scheduled for Wednesday, February 11, 2026.

The players

Domantas Sabonis

A key player for the Kings who has been dealing with knee problems.

Russell Westbrook

A veteran guard for the Kings who is being managed due to ankle issues.

Nique Clifford

A young player who is expected to see increased playing time with the Kings' starters out.

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What they’re saying

“The Kings are looking to protect their status as the worst team in the NBA, if this injury report of theirs is any indication.”

— Jedd Pagaduan, Author (clutchpoints.com)

What’s next

The Kings will look to continue their tank and secure a top draft pick, while the young players will have an opportunity to prove themselves against the Jazz.

The takeaway

The Kings' decision to sit their star players highlights their focus on long-term rebuilding over short-term success, even if it means sacrificing more games in the current season. This strategy could pay dividends in the future if it helps them land a top draft pick and continue to develop their young talent.