In a significant blow to the already struggling Sacramento Kings, forward Keegan Murray has been diagnosed with a moderate left ankle sprain and will be sidelined for an extended period. The injury occurred during Sunday's 115-98 loss to the Milwaukee Bucks, further compounding the team's dismal season.
The Injury Incident and Immediate Aftermath
The unfortunate event took place with 4:01 remaining in the third quarter of the game against the Bucks. Murray drove aggressively to the basket, collided with Milwaukee centre Myles Turner, and landed awkwardly on his left ankle. He was forced to exit the game immediately and did not return.
Subsequent medical evaluation, including an MRI, confirmed the severity of the injury. The Kings' official statement read: "Imaging revealed a moderate left ankle sprain. Murray will be listed as out and will be reevaluated in 3–4 weeks." This timeline sets his potential return for late January or early February, at the earliest.
A Season Marred by Setbacks for Murray and the Kings
This is not the first major injury setback for the 25-year-old forward this season. Murray's 2025-26 campaign began on a delayed note after he suffered a ruptured UCL in his left thumb during a preseason game against the Portland Trail Blazers. The injury required surgery, forcing him to miss the first 15 games of the regular season.
Since his belated debut, Murray has shown his value when on the court. In 19 games played, he has averaged 14.6 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.2 steals, and 1.6 blocks. His absence leaves a considerable hole in both the Kings' offense and defense.
The team's fortunes have mirrored Murray's rocky season. With a current record of 8 wins and 28 losses, the Kings are tied for the fewest victories in the Western Conference. Injuries to key players like Murray have been a primary factor in their struggles, contributing to the third-worst record in the entire NBA this season.
What's Next for the Injury-Ravaged Kings?
The Kings now face the daunting task of navigating the next month without one of their core starters. Murray's injury history this season highlights a troubling pattern:
- Missed the first 15 games due to thumb surgery.
- Sat out two games in late December with a calf issue.
- Now sidelined for 3-4 weeks with an ankle sprain.
This latest development puts additional pressure on the rest of the roster to step up in his absence. The team's medical staff will closely monitor his rehabilitation over the coming weeks, with a critical reassessment planned for the three-to-four-week mark.
For Keegan Murray, a player selected 4th overall in the 2022 NBA Draft, this represents another frustrating hurdle in what was hoped to be a breakout fourth season. For the Sacramento Kings, it is another chapter in a season where very little has gone according to plan.
