Sacramento Kings DVOA, Stats, & NBA Rankings

Sacramento Kings guard Malik Monk (illness) will return from a three-game absence on Thursday against the Trail Blazers. Sacramento has lost four-straight contests, so the Kings need to get it together if the team hopes to remain in the Play-In conversation. Fortunately, Monk, who has averaged a career-high 18.1 points, 3.8 rebounds, 5.9 assists, and 1.0 steals, will be back on the floor. However, his return means Keon Ellis, combining for 46 points in the last three games, will head back to the bench.

Sacramento Kings forward Jake LaRavia (thumb) could be out on Thursday against the Portland Trail Blazers, as the team lists him as questionable on the injury report. He has landed on the report with a sore left thumb, which isn't a serious injury. However, LaRavia might still have to take Thursday night off to recover better. Since arriving from Memphis, LaRavia has steadily improved his performances. He has averaged 9.2 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.4 steals in 22.3 minutes over his last five appearances. If LaRavia is unavailable on Thursday, Doug McDermott and Trey Lyles may see more playing time, although they should not be considered strong fantasy options.

Sacramento Kings guard Malik Monk (illness) is listed as questionable for Thursday's contest against the Portland Trail Blazers. He has missed three games due to an illness, and it's uncertain whether Monk will be able to return on Thursday. Keon Ellis has delivered impressive performances as Monk's replacement in the starting lineup, averaging 15.3 points, 5.0 rebounds, 4.7 assists, and 2.0 steals. He will remain an intriguing fantasy option on Thursday if Monk is not feeling well enough to play.