Injury-Riddled Kings Face Grizzlies in Crucial NBA Showdown on February 23, 2026

The Sacramento Kings are set to clash with the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on February 23, 2026, in a game overshadowed by a lengthy injury list on both sides. Neither team enters with significant momentum, setting the stage for a contest that will test roster depth and strategic adjustments.

Both Teams Grapple with Significant Player Absences

The Sacramento Kings, languishing at the bottom of the Western Conference with a dismal 12-46 record, will be without several key contributors. Dylan Cardwell is sidelined with a left ankle sprain, while De’Andre Hunter continues his recovery from eye surgery. Additionally, Zach LaVine is out with a finger injury, and star big man Domantas Sabonis remains unavailable following knee surgery. Two-way player Isaiah Stevens is also absent due to his assignment.

Memphis, positioned 11th in the conference with a 21-34 record, faces an even more extensive injury crisis. The Grizzlies' unavailable players include Santi Aldama, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Brandon Clarke, Cedric Coward, Zach Edey, and Ja Morant. Furthermore, Kyle Anderson is listed as doubtful due to knee soreness, and Ty Jerome is questionable because of illness.

Team Strategies and Key Matchups

With these critical absences, Sacramento will heavily rely on the scoring prowess of DeMar DeRozan, Keegan Murray, and Malik Monk to generate offense. Memphis, meanwhile, will look to Jaren Jackson Jr. and Jaylen Wells to shoulder the load. The head-to-head battle between DeRozan and Jaren Jackson Jr. is particularly noteworthy, as it could dictate the game's tempo and outcome.

Sacramento's defensive struggles have been a season-long issue, with opponents shooting an efficient 49.5 percent from the field. The team allows an average of 121.1 points per game, ranking 18th in the league in opponent points allowed. In contrast, Memphis holds a slight statistical edge in rebounding, averaging 45.0 boards per game compared to Sacramento's 41.3, which could prove decisive in a tightly contested matchup.

Statistical Breakdown and Historical Context

A detailed comparison of team statistics reveals distinct strengths and weaknesses:

Points Per Game: Kings 110.1 (26th), Grizzlies 115.4 (9th)
Rebounds Per Game: Kings 41.3 (22nd), Grizzlies 45.0 (6th)
Assists Per Game: Kings 25.0 (16th), Grizzlies 28.7 (15th)
Field Goal Percentage: Kings 46.2% (21st), Grizzlies 45.9% (15th)
Three-Point Percentage: Kings 34.0% (29th), Grizzlies 35.1% (15th)
Opponent Points Allowed: Kings 121.1 (18th), Grizzlies 117.4 (23rd)

Historically, Memphis leads the all-time series 98-88 and has secured victories in both meetings this season. In those matchups, Sacramento averaged 14.6 turnovers per game, highlighting a persistent issue that could resurface.

Game Outlook and Implications

With star players like Sabonis, LaVine, Morant, and Edey all sidelined, this encounter is anticipated to be a slower-paced, grind-it-out affair. Memphis enjoys a slight home-court advantage and a rebounding margin of +3.7 over Sacramento, factors that could tilt the balance in their favor.

Sacramento is also attempting to snap a daunting 16-game road losing streak, adding an extra layer of motivation. As both teams navigate their injury woes, this game will ultimately hinge on which squad can effectively manage their short rotations and capitalize on limited opportunities.