The Sacramento Kings have been dealt an early blow to their 2025–26 NBA season after forward Keegan Murray suffered a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his left thumb.
The injury happened during the Kings’ preseason game against the Portland Trail Blazers on Friday night. The team confirmed over the weekend that Murray is expected to miss four to six weeks while he recovers.
It’s a tough setback for both Keegan Murray and the Kings, who were counting on the 24-year-old to take another step forward this season. Since joining the league, he has been one of the team’s most dependable players, renowned for his consistent scoring, adaptable defense, and composed on-court demeanor.
Murray’s First Serious Absence Since Entering the NBA
Up until now, Murray’s medical history had been nearly flawless. During his rookie season in 2022–2023, he missed just two games due to minor thumb issues. He was a key player in Sacramento’s playoff run that year and started every game in their first-round matchup with the Golden State Warriors.
After suffering a back injury in November 2023 during his second season, Murray quickly recovered and continued to play regularly for the remainder of the season. Last season, he finished with more than 75 appearances and missed only a few games due to ankle pain.
Keegan Murray has averaged 13.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 1.4 assists over his first three seasons, shooting 45% from the field and 37% from beyond the arc. These stats demonstrate his effectiveness and consistency.
Kings Confident Keegan Murray Will Bounce Back
While the injury means Keegan Murray will miss the start of the season, the Kings remain optimistic. His recovery timeline suggests he could return by late November or early December, just as the team begins to settle into its rhythm.
Head coach Mike Brown is expected to lean on Harrison Barnes, Trey Lyles, and Sasha Vezenkov to help fill the gap in Murray’s absence. Still, Sacramento knows how important Murray’s shooting and defense are to their system, especially alongside De’Aaron Fox and Domantas Sabonis.
The setback is frustrating, but given Murray’s strong work ethic and durability, there’s little doubt he’ll return ready to contribute.
For now, the Kings will have to adjust — but they know their young star will be back soon, ready to help them make another playoff push.
