Is the Kings’ winning streak in jeopardy? After struggling early, Sac Town has risen to a .500 record by winning their last three games. And they hope to extend that streak tonight as they face the Nuggets. However, they have suffered a massive setback ahead of the home encounter because their star forward Keegan Murray has been ruled out just hours before tip-off!

Yes, Murray, dealing with left ankle soreness, was initially deemed questionable to play. Unfortunately, the hoopster’s status has now been downgraded to out. Obviously, this is a massive blow for the Sacramento side because Keegan has been in incredible form this season, averaging 12.4 points and nearly eight rebounds.

Moreover, Keegan Murray’s absence will force Mike Brown to make major adjustments because this would be the forward’s first missed game of the season. Murray has gained ‘Iron Man’ status for his team as he has been absent for only seven games in his career, tonight being the eighth! With him out, Colby Jones and Jae Crowder are likely to get more playing time.

Adding to the concerns, the Kings will also have to play without Kevin Huerter. He suffered an AC joint injury during Thursday’s win against the Pelicans. And he also missed a recent practice session. Obviously, the injury worried many fans, fearing that it was connected to his left shoulder labrum issue which shortened his season last year. Fortunately, both setbacks are reportedly unrelated.

However, Huerter’s presence will also be missed, especially because he has been putting up a solid show recently, averaging 13.6 points in the last five games. And it’s mainly because of Mike Brown’s key strategy change.

Kevin Huerter-Malik Monk switch has done wonders for the Kings!

Well, the Kings had a shaky start to the season. But they have looked dominant in recent games, especially after Mike Brown bumped Malik Monk to the starting lineup to replace Huerter. Monk has been a frequent Sixth Man of the Year candidate since moving to Sacramento and a consistent force off the bench. Brown has now trusted him to take a bigger responsibility. Sure enough, this change has helped the Kings immensely, as they’ve seen an increase in scoring, efficiency, and assist numbers since Monk became a starter.

Malik Monk is enjoying his upgraded role, as he recently said, “I love it. I always wanted to be a starter since coming from the Lakers.” He’s averaging 15.7 points and nearly five assists. Meanwhile, the bench role has suited Huerter well, as his performances have also seen a significant uptick. As Murray and Huerter remain out for tonight’s encounter, Brown will heavily rely on Monk and the rest to make up for their absence and extend their winning streak. Do you think the Kings can do it despite missing two stars?