Knicks vs Kings Injury Report: How Depleted Sacramento Faces a Surging New York

Knicks vs Kings injury report: Injured players, TV info & team stats

When the New York Knicks and Sacramento Kings tip off on January 14, 2026, it won’t just be a battle of Eastern vs. Western Conference contenders—it’ll be a stark contrast between health and hardship. The Knicks arrive in peak form, bolstered by the return of key defender Josh Hart, while the Kings are limping into the game with two of their best players watching from the bench. This lopsided Knicks vs Kings injury report could very well decide the outcome before the opening jump ball.

Sacramento’s injury woes have reached crisis levels. Star center Domantas Sabonis—averaging a double-double and anchoring their offense—is out with a lingering knee issue. Sharpshooter Keegan Murray, their most consistent perimeter threat, is also sidelined. That leaves the Kings dangerously reliant on 36-year-old DeMar DeRozan and 37-year-old Russell Westbrook, two veterans whose explosiveness has waned with age. Meanwhile, New York’s defense—the third-stingiest in the league—smells blood .

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Full Knicks vs Kings Injury Report Breakdown

Let’s lay out the official status for both teams as of January 14, 2026:

Sacramento Kings – Out

  • Domantas Sabonis (C): Left knee soreness – day-to-day, but ruled out for this game.
  • Keegan Murray (F): Right ankle sprain – expected to miss 1–2 weeks.
  • Malik Monk (G): Personal reasons – not with the team.

New York Knicks – Questionable but Likely Playing

  • Josh Hart (G/F): Returned from a hamstring strain; listed as probable after full practice participation.
  • Mitchell Robinson (C): Minor back stiffness – game-time decision, but expected to play limited minutes.

For the Kings, missing Sabonis and Murray isn’t just inconvenient—it’s catastrophic. Together, they account for nearly 40 points, 20 rebounds, and 8 assists per game. Their absence strips Sacramento of interior scoring, floor spacing, and transition defense—all areas the Knicks excel at exploiting .

How Sabonis and Murray Absences Hurt the Kings

Without Sabonis, the Kings lose their primary playmaker from the high post and their only reliable rim protector. Opponents have shot 62% at the rim in games he’s missed this season. Keegan Murray’s absence removes their top three-point shooter (39.2% on 6.1 attempts per game) and a versatile switchable defender.

This forces coach Mike Brown into a desperate rotation: starting veteran forward Trey Lyles at center and relying on DeRozan to carry an unsustainable offensive load. Westbrook, while energetic, has struggled with efficiency (41% FG) and often disrupts offensive flow with his iso-heavy style. Against New York’s disciplined scheme, this makeshift lineup is a recipe for disaster.

Josh Hart’s Return Gives Knicks a Defensive Boost

Just as the Kings are losing key pieces, the Knicks are getting one back. Josh Hart’s return couldn’t come at a better time. Known for his relentless on-ball pressure and rebounding from the guard spot, Hart is the perfect antidote to Sacramento’s perimeter-oriented attack.

His presence allows Jalen Brunson to focus more on offense while Hart shadows DeRozan or hounds Westbrook into tough shots. Plus, Hart’s elite transition defense will be critical in limiting Sacramento’s already-struggling fast break. As one scout noted, “Hart doesn’t just guard—he demoralizes.” His energy could be the spark New York needs to dominate the second unit.

Key Matchups to Watch in This Lopsided Affair

  1. Brunson vs. De’Aaron Fox: If Fox plays through his minor wrist issue, this will be a speed vs. craft duel. But if he’s limited, Brunson feasts.
  2. RJ Barrett vs. DeMar DeRozan: Barrett’s length and improving defense will test DeRozan’s mid-range mastery.
  3. Knicks Bench vs. Kings Bench: With Monk out and Murray gone, New York’s second unit—led by Donte DiVincenzo and Precious Achiuwa—should dominate.

Team Stats and Season Context Heading Into Game Night

As of January 14, the Knicks sit 3rd in the East with a 28–14 record, boasting the league’s 3rd-best defense (108.4 rating). The Kings, meanwhile, are 9th in the West at 22–20, having lost 4 of their last 5 games—all without Sabonis.

New York averages 114.2 PPG while holding opponents to 109.1. Sacramento scores 116.8 but surrenders 118.3—a negative differential that worsens dramatically when their stars are out. The analytics don’t lie: this is a prime spot for a Knicks cover .

Conclusion: Can the Kings Survive Without Their Core?

The Knicks vs Kings injury report tells a clear story: one team is whole, the other is fractured. While DeRozan and Westbrook may provide flashes of brilliance, they can’t replicate the structural integrity Sabonis and Murray bring. For New York, this is a golden opportunity to solidify their playoff seeding and showcase their depth. Barring a miraculous performance, expect the Knicks to control the tempo, win the rebounding battle, and cruise to victory in what should be a statement win on national TV.

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