PHOENIX — The Phoenix Suns open the season against the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday, Oct. 22, and star big man Domantas Sabonis is in jeopardy of missing the contest.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Senior NBA insider Chris Haynes revealed Thursday that the Kings center sustained a mild hamstring strain and would be sidelined for their preseason finale against the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday.
Sabonis is coming off a formidable year, averaging 19.1 points, 13.9 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game in 70 appearances. He and the staunch veteran Kings are looking to be competitive in an uber-competitive Western Conference.
Oct 15, 2025; Sacramento, California, USA; Sacramento Kings center Domantas Sabonis (11) controls the ball against Los Angeles Clippers guard Jordan Miller (22) during the first quarter at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images
What this means for the Suns
Given the fact that it’ merely game one of 82, the result of Wednesday’s season opener may not mean much in the grand scheme of things, but a win to start off Jordan Ott’s tenure in The Valley would be ideal. Sabonis being out helps that.
The Suns are deep at the center position, but the Sacramento big man present problems to each of Phoenix’s diversely-skilled bigs. The Kings’ depth behind Sabonis also leaves much to be desired.
Mar 14, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Sacramento Kings forward Domantas Sabonis (11) reacts against the Phoenix Suns during the second half at Footprint Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Mortgage Matchup Center clash is noteworthy for another reason — former NBA MVP Russell Westbrook will be making his Sactown debut after striking a free agent deal with the franchise early this week.
Suns star guard Devin Booker gave an instant reaction to the news.
Booker Shows Love After Westbrook, Kings Deal
The 17-year veteran agreed to a deal with the Kings Wednesday afternoon after a long offseason of uncertainty. The Suns open the season against Sacramento at home on Oct. 22, and Booker reacted to the signing.
“I was,” Booker said on being surprised it took until a week for Westbrook to find a home. “I think it’s better for the league. I have a lot of respect for Russ. I’m happy he’s found a spot. It just happens to be the team we’re playing first this year.
“I’m definitely happy for him and his family. He deserves it for the amount of work he’s put into this league.”
Apr 22, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) controls the ball against Los Angeles Clippers guard Russell Westbrook (0) during the second half in game four of the 2023 NBA playoffs at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Westbrook joins an interesting Sacramento squad riddled with talented veterans like Domantas Sabonis, DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine. Many would argue, though, that in an ultra-competitive Western Conference, both the Kings and Suns have a similar ceiling, despite Sacramento appearing more talented on paper.
The two will get their first taste of each other when they take the court in the Mortgage Matchup Center on Wednesday, Oct. 22, at 7 p.m. PT.
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