NBA Showdown: Kings Host Trail Blazers Tonight with Key Players Sidelined
The NBA delivers a thrilling matchup tonight as the Sacramento Kings welcome the Portland Trail Blazers to the Golden 1 Center. This game promises high stakes and intense action. Tip-off is set for 9:00 pm Eastern Time on Sunday, January 18, 2026.
Team Records and Current Form
The Sacramento Kings enter this contest with a record of 12 wins from 42 games this season. They rely heavily on star players like Russell Westbrook and Zach LaVine to lead the charge. However, injuries pose a significant challenge. Keon Ellis is doubtful for tonight's game, while Isaiah Stevens and Keegan Murray remain sidelined.
The Portland Trail Blazers have secured 21 victories in 43 games so far. Their roster features impactful players such as Jrue Holiday and Toumani Camara, who could steer the team toward success. Unfortunately, the Trail Blazers also face injury woes. Deni Avdija and Damian Lillard are out due to injuries, weakening their lineup.
When and Where to Watch the Game
Fans can catch all the action live from Sacramento, California. The game starts at 9:00 p.m. ET. Television coverage is exclusive to KUNP and NBCS-CA. For online viewers, streaming options include Fubo and Prime Video, ensuring everyone can tune in.
Expected Starting Lineups
Sacramento Kings:
- Russell Westbrook (Point Guard)
- Zach LaVine (Shooting Guard)
- DeMar DeRozan (Small Forward)
- Precious Achiuwa (Power Forward)
- Domantas Sabonis (Center)
Portland Trail Blazers:
- Jrue Holiday (Point Guard)
- Shaedon Sharpe (Shooting Guard)
- Toumani Camara (Small Forward)
- Jerami Grant (Power Forward)
- Donovan Clingan (Center)
Injury Report for Both Teams
Sacramento Kings:
- Isaiah Stevens - OUT (two-way contract)
- Keegan Murray - OUT (ankle)
- Keon Ellis - QUESTIONABLE (knee)
Portland Trail Blazers:
- Damian Lillard - OUT (ACL)
- Deni Avdija - OUT (back)
- Scoot Henderson - OUT (hamstring)
- Matisse Thybulle - OUT (knee, thumb)
- Kris Murray - OUT (back)
- Blake Wesley - OUT (foot)
- Robert Williams III - QUESTIONABLE (knee)
Game Prediction and Key Stats
This season, the Sacramento Kings have scored over 228.5 points in 25 of their 42 matches. The Portland Trail Blazers match that exactly, achieving the same feat in 25 out of 43 games. This similarity makes predictions particularly challenging.
The Kings boast an impressive roster. Russell Westbrook averages 15.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 7 assists per game. DeMar DeRozan contributes 19.1 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game, providing consistent offensive firepower.
For the Trail Blazers, Toumani Camara averages 12.8 points, 5 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game. Shaedon Sharpe delivers even more with 21.6 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game, making him a key player to watch.
Tonight's clash will test both teams' depth and resilience. With several starters missing, role players must step up to secure a win. Expect a competitive game filled with strategic plays and standout performances.