Guest of the League
LFG League
Draft Masters - $20 - Fantasy Week 18 | NBA Week 18

Kings' Domantas Sabonis, Zach LaVine have season-ending surgeries

Wed Feb 18 6:15pm ET
Field Level Media

The Sacramento Kings, losers of 14 straight and at the bottom of the league standings, lost stars Domantas Sabonis and Zach LaVine to season-ending surgeries on Wednesday, ESPN reported.

Sabonis, a three-time All-Star in the frontcourt, had surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee, ESPN reported. He had returned to action in mid-January after missing 27 games following the mid-November injury.

The 29-year-old averaged 15.8 points, 11.4 rebounds, 4.1 assists and 29.7 minutes in 19 games (15 starts) this season.

LaVine, a two-time All-Star guard who turns 31 on March 10, had been in and out of the lineup for 10 games because of a tendon injury in his right hand before selecting surgery.


He last played on Feb. 6 in a home loss to the Los Angeles Clippers. LaVine averaged a team-high 19.2 points along with 2.8 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 31.4 minutes in 39 games (37 starts).

The duo are the highest-paid players for the Kings (12-44), ESPN reported, with LaVine having a $48.9 million player option next season and Sabonis having two years and $94 million remaining on his contract.

Sacramento hosts the Orlando Magic on Thursday night and a 15th straight loss would set a franchise record for futility. The franchise twice lost 14 games when it was known as the Cincinnati Royals.

Minnesota selected LaVine with the 13th overall pick of the 2014 NBA Draft out of UCLA.

LaVine, 30, averages 20.7 points per game for his career, with 4.0 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 32.7 minutes and 1,632 career 3-pointers in 693 regular-season games (602 starts) for the Minnesota Timberwolves (2014-17), Chicago Bulls (2018-25) and Kings. He represented the Bulls at the 2021 and 2022 All-Star Games.

The Orlando Magic picked Sabonis with the 11th overall pick of the 2016 NBA Draft out of Gonzaga and traded him the same day to the Oklahoma City Thunder.

For his career, Sabonis averages 16.1 points 10.7 rebounds, 4.9 assists and 30.8 minutes in 665 games (521 starts) for Oklahoma City (2016-17), Indiana Pacers (2017-22) and Kings (2022-present). He was an All-Star in 2020, 2021 and 2023.

Player Notes
Jonathan Kuminga Wed Feb 18 8:10pm

Atlanta Hawks forward Jonathan Kuminga (knee) will be re-evaluated in approximately one week as he continues rehabbing a left knee bone bruise, the team announced Wednesday. The injury occurred Jan. 22, and Kuminga will miss at least the next stretch of games before another update. His delayed debut keeps minutes open on the wing. Corey Kispert has averaged 12.0 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.8 threes in 25.4 minutes over his last eight games, while Zaccharie Risacher is posting 10.5 points and 1.5 threes in 24.2 minutes across 42 contests. Both are viable deeper-league streamers but remain fringe options until Kuminga is cleared.

Evan Mobley Wed Feb 18 8:00pm

Cleveland Cavaliers forward/center Evan Mobley (calf) will make his first appearance since straining his left calf during a Jan. 26 win over Orlando when Cleveland faces Brooklyn on Thursday. He has missed seven straight games and may not immediately resume a full workload, with a potential minutes restriction in play. Mobley is averaging 17.9 points, 8.8 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.0 blocks in 33.4 minutes this season and remains a must-start in all formats. His return should cut into the roles of Jaylon Tyson and Sam Merrill, both of whom saw expanded minutes during his absence.

Andrew Nembhard Wed Feb 18 7:40pm

Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard (back) isn't listed on the injury report ahead of Thursday's game against Washington. He's battled nagging injuries throughout the campaign, so he got the night off versus the Nets in Indiana's final contest leading up to the All-Star break. With Pascal Siakam (personal) and Ivica Zubac (ankle) ruled out, and Aaron Nesmith (back) and T.J. McConnell (hamstring) questionable, Nembhard should receive plenty of chances to produce in a meeting with one of the worst defensive squads in the National Basketball Association.

Keegan Murray Wed Feb 18 7:40pm

Sacramento Kings forward Keegan Murray (ankle) said he is ready to return for Thursday's game against Orlando, according to James Ham of ESPN 1320 Sacramento. Murray has been out since early January but recently resumed full basketball activities. In 19 appearances this season, he is averaging 14.6 points, 6.1 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 1.2 steals, 1.6 blocks, and 1.3 threes in 35.9 minutes. With Zach LaVine (hand) and Domantas Sabonis (knee) out for the year, Murray should absorb more offensive responsibility alongside DeMar DeRozan. The Kings could ease him back, but he's worth holding as his workload builds.

Aaron Nesmith Wed Feb 18 7:30pm

Indiana Pacers guard/forward Aaron Nesmith (back) is questionable for Thursday's matchup with the Wizards. He didn't suit up for the meeting with the Nets ahead of the All-Star break because of a lumbar strain. While Nesmith has a shot at playing on Thursday, it's also realistic to assume he won't be back on the court until Friday when these clubs meet again. With Pascal Siakam (personal) sidelined, Andrew Nembhard and Jarace Walker have the best chance of leading the way offensively if Nesmith doesn't suit up. Jay Huff could also be more involved on both ends of the floor, especially with Ivica Zubac (ankle) still on the shelf.

Trae Young Wed Feb 18 7:30pm

Washington Wizards guard Trae Young (knee) has not been cleared for contact and did not practice Wednesday, coach Brian Keefe said, via The Athletic. There is no timetable for his debut, and he can be considered week-to-week as he works back from a right knee MCL sprain and quad contusion. His absence keeps Bub Carrington in the starting role. Carrington is averaging 10.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 2.1 threes in 28.0 minutes across 53 games, though on 40.2 percent shooting. Tre Johnson remains a viable streamer after posting 12.9 points and 2.1 threes in 25.0 minutes over 40 games.

T.J. McConnell Wed Feb 18 7:30pm

Indiana Pacers guard T.J. McConnell (hamstring) is questionable for Thursday's game against Washington. He wasn't available versus the Nets in the Pacers' final contest before the All-Star break. Hopefully, the time off did him some good, although it's possible he may need another night off to recover from nagging hamstring soreness. With Pascal Siakam (personal) and Ivica Zubac (ankle) ruled out, and Aaron Nesmith (back) listed as questionable, McConnell might work his way into the starting lineup, assuming he gets the green light to play. At the same time, even if the 33-year-old comes off the bench, he'll be worth streaming in most fantasy setups.

Darius Garland Wed Feb 18 7:10pm

Los Angeles Clippers guard Darius Garland (toe) is considered week-to-week and continues practicing on a limited basis while managing his surgically repaired left foot, according to Law Murray of The Athletic. The team expects him to return this season, but a debut is unlikely before March. Garland carries a 28.6 usage rate when active, so his absence keeps Kris Dunn entrenched as the starting point guard while Kawhi Leonard maintains primary offensive control with a 34.8 usage rate. Bennedict Mathurin and Kobe Sanders carry value in deeper formats, though both profile as fringe options. Garland remains a firm hold in all competitive leagues.

Pascal Siakam Wed Feb 18 7:10pm

Indiana Pacers forward Pascal Siakam (personal) won't play on Thursday against Washington. These clubs will meet again on Friday, so fantasy managers will need to wait and see if he'll be back for that one. The Pacers have a number of players listed on the injury report, specifically, T.J. McConnell (hamstring), Aaron Nesmith (back), Micah Potter (ankle), and Ivica Zubac (ankle). As a result, Kam Jones and Ben Sheppard could see more work. That may also apply to Quenton Jackson and Ethan Thompson, depending on if they get the bump from the G League. With that said, there's a chance McConnell, Nesmith, and Potter will play, so there are a lot of moving parts in this scenario.

Joel Embiid Wed Feb 18 7:00pm

Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (shin) won't play on Thursday versus Atlanta. He reported soreness in his right shin during the All-Star break, so he'll miss at least one contest. However, the 31-year-old will be re-evaluated leading up to Philly's three-game road trip in New Orleans, Minnesota, and Indiana, meaning there is a chance he might miss more time. While Embiid is out of commission, Andre Drummond, averaging 8.9 points and 10.8 boards in 19 starts this season, will presumably replace him in the rotation. Adem Bona should also see additional action and would be worth streaming if Drummond sits out a game during the road trip.

Dylan Cardwell Wed Feb 18 7:00pm

Sacramento Kings forward/center Dylan Cardwell (ankle) sprained his left ankle at practice Tuesday and will be re-evaluated in four weeks, according to James Ham of ESPN 1320 Sacramento. The rookie was providing 5.4 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 1.2 assists in 21.2 minutes across 29 games, flashing strong per-minute rebounding. With Domantas Sabonis (knee) already out for the season, Maxime Raynaud is locked into heavy run. Raynaud is averaging 9.8 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.0 assists in 23.5 minutes over 48 games and now projects for 30-plus minutes. He is a must-add in standard leagues, while Precious Achiuwa gains deeper-league appeal.

Nicolas Claxton Wed Feb 18 7:00pm

Brooklyn Nets center Nicolas Claxton (ankle) won't play on Thursday versus Cleveland. He tweaked his ankle during practice on Wednesday, so it appears his absence might extend beyond Thursday's contest. While Claxton is sidelined, Day'Ron Sharpe will likely replace him in the starting lineup. Sharpe has averaged 13.8 points, 8.5 boards, 2.3 steals, and 1.3 blocks in four starts this season, meaning he needs to be featured in all fantasy lineups as long as Claxton remains on the shelf.

Franz Wagner Wed Feb 18 6:50pm

Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner (ankle) will be sidelined indefinitely after further evaluation revealed he requires additional rehabilitation for soreness stemming from a left high ankle sprain, according to Shams Charania of ESPN. He will be re-evaluated in three weeks, leaving a significant usage gap in the interim. Wagner carries a 25.6 usage rate, and his absence elevates Anthony Black, who is averaging 16.1 points, 4.0 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 1.7 threes in 31.1 minutes across 53 games. Paolo Banchero should handle more creation duties, while Tristan da Silva and Noah Penda profile as short-term streamers.

Domantas Sabonis Wed Feb 18 6:40pm

Sacramento Kings forward/center Domantas Sabonis (knee) underwent season-ending surgery Wednesday to repair a torn left meniscus. The 29-year-old was limited to 19 appearances this season, averaging 15.8 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 4.1 assists in 29.7 minutes before being shut down as the 12-44 Kings shift focus to development. With backup center Dylan Cardwell (ankle) also sidelined, rookie Maxime Raynaud is positioned to handle 30-plus minutes nightly. Raynaud is averaging 9.8 points and 6.6 rebounds in 23.5 minutes across 48 games and now profiles as a must-add in standard leagues. Precious Achiuwa should see a steadier run off the bench, while Keegan Murray and DeMar DeRozan gain modest usage bumps. Sabonis can be dropped in redraft formats.

Kyrie Irving Wed Feb 18 6:30pm

Dallas Mavericks guard Kyrie Irving (knee) will not return this season as he continues recovering from ACL reconstruction surgery performed March 26, the team announced Wednesday. The 33-year-old has yet to play in 2025-26, and Dallas is prioritizing a full recovery with an eye toward next fall. His absence locks in heavy on-ball duties for rookie guard Cooper Flagg, who carries a 28.3 usage rate in 35.0 minutes, while Brandon Williams and Max Christie should continue seeing expanded roles. Irving remains a stash only in dynasty formats.

Obi Toppin Wed Feb 18 7:50am

Indiana Pacers forward Obi Toppin (foot) will remain out on Thursday against the Washington Wizards, Dustin Dopirak of The Indianapolis Star reports. Toppin was at Tuesday's practice, but only as a limited participant. According to Pacers head coach, the former dunk champion is making progress in his recovery from right-foot surgery, but it's going to be "a while" before Toppin is ready to play. Toppin enjoyed a strong start to the campaign before landing on the shelf. He averaged 14.0 points and 6.7 rebounds across the first three games. As long as he's out, Jarace Walker and Micah Potter will benefit from extra minutes in the frontcourt.

Kristaps Porzingis Wed Feb 18 7:30am

Golden State Warriors forward/center Kristaps Porzingis (Achilles) practiced on Tuesday, ESPN's Anthony Slater reports. He is also scheduled to take part in a team scrimmage on Wednesday. This suggests Porzingis could be ready to make his team debut on Thursday against his former squad, the Boston Celtics. The Latvian veteran hasn't played since Jan. 7 due to an Achilles issue. He had a decent start to the campaign with the Atlanta Hawks, recording 17.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.3 blocks per game. Gui Santos may find himself on the bench when Porzingis returns, significantly lowering his fantasy appeal.

Ivica Zubac Wed Feb 18 7:30am

Indiana Pacers center Ivica Zubac (ankle) isn't ready to make his team debut when the season resumes on Thursday, Dustin Dopirak of The Indianapolis Star reports. The Croatian big man was a limited participant in Tuesday's practice, and Pacers head coach Rick Carlisle said after the session that it will be "a while" before Zubac is ready to play. The Pacers have the fourth-worst record in the league and aren't in a rush to get Zubac back into the lineup. With him out, Jay Huff, Micah Potter, and Kobe Brown share minutes at center.

Stephen Curry Wed Feb 18 7:20am

Golden State Warriors point guard Stephen Curry (knee) is expected to participate in a team scrimmage on Wednesday, ESPN's Anthony Slater reports. The team will then determine his status for Thursday's matchup with the Boston Celtics. Curry has been dealing with runner's knee and sat out the final five games before the All-Star break. Due to the issue, the two-time MVP was also unable to play in the All-Star Game on Sunday. Pat Spencer has been starting at point guard during Curry's absence, averaging 14.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, 5.0 assists, and 1.2 steals over the last five games.

Jaren Jackson Jr. Wed Feb 18 7:10am

Utah Jazz forward/center Jaren Jackson Jr. (knee) underwent surgery on Tuesday to remove a growth in his left knee. The team plans to re-evaluate him in four weeks to determine his recovery status. Last week, it was reported that Jackson Jr. will miss the rest of the season. After arriving from Memphis in an eight-player trade on Feb. 3, Jackson Jr. suited up for just three games for the Jazz. He averaged 22.3 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 2.0 steals. With Jackson Jr. sidelined, Kyle Filipowski, Brice Sensabaugh, and John Konchar are expected to see increased playing time.


Rotate for more data.