In a tough blow for the Sacramento Kings, sharpshooter Kevin Huerter was forced to exit Monday night's game against Memphis less than two minutes in due to a shoulder injury. An MRI later revealed that Huerter had suffered a dislocated shoulder and a labral tear, a type of cartilage tear that affects the shoulder joint.
The team announced that Huerter's treatment options are still being evaluated, but he will be listed as out for the foreseeable future. It is highly unlikely that he will return for the remainder of the season or the playoffs. This injury has been a common theme in the league recently, with players like Ja Morant also sidelined due to similar issues.
In Huerter's absence, rookie Keon Ellis, known for his defensive prowess, got the nod to start in Wednesday night's game. Additionally, Malik Monk, a strong candidate for Sixth Man of the Year, is expected to see an increase in playing time.
The Kings, currently holding the sixth seed in the competitive Western Conference, will sorely miss Huerter as they navigate the tight playoff race. They sit just half a game ahead of both Dallas and Phoenix, who are both charging hard. Furthermore, they are two games behind the fifth-seeded Pelicans, who have been on a hot streak lately.
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