Although reenergized, the Sacramento Kings suffered a defeat against an equally hot Denver Nuggets team. However, they may have taken worse damage than just their 21st loss of the season. Towards the end of the gripping game, the Kings’ franchise star De’Aarn Fox appeared to have suffered a thumb injury. That has put his participation against the Knicks in jeopardy.

According to Sean Cunningham, the speedy guard has suffered a right thumb sprain from the incident against the Nuggets. As of now, he is listed to be questionable against the Red Apple. For Sacramento, it is a major loss despite his subdued production in recent games. With Karl-Anthony Towns back for the Knicks, the King could be without a pivotal offensive engine of theirs.

So far in the middling season, Fox has been the most prolific scoring threat for the Kings. Averaging close to 26 points per game, his quick drives and improved playmaking tend to have a huge influence on opposition defenses. In addition, against a team like the Knicks who concede the second most points from guards, De’Aaron Fox could have been a major threat.

The Kings can still stun the Knicks

Before Mike Brown was let go, De’Aaron Fox was the prime contributor to the offense. His electric performances almost became a necessity for the Kings. However, with Doug Christie’s recent changes, Sacramento has experienced a turnaround. Notably, under the interim head coach, Sabonis and DeMar DeRozan have started thriving again.

In addition, the Kings still have great depth and the grit to push a highly physical team such as the Knicks. Speaking of the New York team, they also have Josh Hart listed as questionable. The spirited forward is an integral puzzle piece for Tim Thibadeau as he contributes to the hard-nosed playstyle for the Knicks.

In his absence, Deebo could have a favorable matchup. However, they will still be the underdogs. The Knicks, especially with Towns and Jalen Brunson run a fluent offense. The brute Knicks center could pose a unique challenge with his physicality against Domantas Sabonis. Both of them are sound rebounders, ranking 1st and 2nd in the NBA.

Aside from the player matchups, both the Knicks and the Kings have been poor when taking care of the ball. Hence, limiting turnovers could prove to be a key factor for the team that does emerge victorious tonight.

Kings depth chart

Even if De’Aaron Fox does play, having just returned from a glute injury, the charismatic guard is yet to get back to game shape. The responsibility of taking the helm falls upon Sabonis and DeRozan. In addition, Malik Monk can also use his change of direction and game-reading skills to dismantle the Knicks.

Do you think the Kings can shock the Knicks? Let us know your views in the comments below.