Zach LaVine Out with Ankle Injury, What is Timeline for Return to King Lineup?

Sacramento Kings shooting guard Zach LaVine was diagnosed with a "moderate" left ankle sprain following an MRI, according to HoopsHype's Michael Scotto.

LaVine will be evaluated again in one week, per Scotto.

The two-time All-Star suffered the injury in the second quarter of Sacramento's 117-103 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves on Sunday. LaVine appeared to roll his ankle on a drive to the basket, staying on the floor for a few more minutes before eventually exiting the game.

LaVine has remained relatively healthy as of late, appearing in at least 74 games in two of the prior three years. It's worth noting that he was limited to just 25 contests during his 2023-24 campaign due to right foot surgery, though.

The 30-year-old has been the subject of trade rumors with the Kings currently owning a 6-20 record, but he's continued to operate as an efficient volume scorer despite the team's overall struggles.

LaVine is averaging 20.2 points and 3.0 rebounds per game this season while shooting 48.7 percent from the field and 38.5 percent from three-point territory.

Sacramento is navigating through multiple injuries to key players, as star center Domantas Sabonis hasn't played since Nov. 16 due to a partial meniscus tear in his left knee.

Until LaVine is able to return, Nique Clifford and Malik Monk should see expanded roles in the Kings' offense.