Why Kings star Domantas Sabonis isn’t playing against Heat

Why Kings star Domantas Sabonis isn’t playing against Heat appeared first on ClutchPoints . Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here . The Sacramento Kings will be without Domantas Sabonis on Sunday night when they host the Miami Heat at Golden 1 Center, adding another twist to what has already been a turbulent start for the big man amid swirling trade rumors. The Kings’ latest injury report lists him as out due to left knee soreness, according to Ira Winderman of the South Florida Sun Sentinel. The injury is a worrying one for Sacramento. It is the same knee that cut Sabonis’ 2025-26 campaign short. He underwent surgery in February to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee, which ended his season after just 19 games, the fewest he had played since the 2021-22 season. Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial) Sabonis had looked like his usual self to start the new season. Through the Kings’ first six games, he averaged 16.0 points, 15.8 rebounds and 7.3 assists per contest. He also played on Friday against the San Antonio Spurs , finishing with 17 points on 8-of-12 shooting, along with 12 rebounds and five assists in a 124-109 loss. His absence is the latest blow for a Kings team that has had little go right this season. Sacramento enters Sunday’s matchup at 1-8, with its only win coming against the Dallas Mavericks on Nov. 2. The Kings have lost their last two games to the Los Angeles Lakers and the Spurs, and Zach LaVine has not hidden his frustration with the team’s struggles . Those struggles have only intensified the trade speculation surrounding the 30-year-old, as rumors recently pointed the Toronto Raptors and Charlotte Hornets as two of the best potential landing spots for the big man. In Toronto, Sabonis would provide an upgrade at center over Jakob Poeltl while giving Scottie Barnes a playmaking hub in the high post. Charlotte, meanwhile, could use his passing and screening to help an offense that has struggled mightily. With Sabonis sidelined, the Kings will lean more heavily on LaVine and Malik Monk on offense, while Dylan Cardwell and Precious Achiuwa will be tasked with holding down the paint. That will not be easy against a Heat frontcourt featuring Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo. Miami comes into the game at 3-6, looking to bounce back after a 120-100 loss to the Golden State Warriors on Thursday . It remains to be seen how long Sabonis will be out. After Sunday’s game, the Kings will stay home to host the Orlando Magic on Tuesday. Related: Heat vs. Kings injury report: Keegan Murray upgraded Related: 2 best Domantas Sabonis trade destinations amid rumored unhappiness with dreadful Kings