LaVine Trade Rumors and Raynaud Injury: Kings vs. Bucks Game Preview
As the Sacramento Kings prepare to face the Milwaukee Bucks on Sunday, key storylines include the potential impact of Zach LaVine’s trade rumors and rookie center Maxime Raynaud’s injury. The game will take place at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento.
Zach LaVine Trade Rumors
The February 5 NBA trade deadline is approaching, raising speculations about LaVine’s future. The Bucks are reportedly showing a strong interest in acquiring LaVine to enhance their offense alongside two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo. Despite missing the last nine games due to a left ankle sprain, LaVine has been upgraded to questionable for this matchup against the Bucks.
Raynaud’s Injury Update
Maxime Raynaud left the recent game against the Phoenix Suns with a left knee injury, causing concern among fans and teammates. Fortunately, an MRI revealed no structural damage, and Raynaud is expected to participate in Sunday’s game. The 7-foot-1 center has been impressive, averaging 14.0 points and 9.1 rebounds in the absence of All-NBA center Domantas Sabonis, who is sidelined with a partially torn meniscus.
Team Status and Standings
- Kings: Currently at 8-27, they have lost four consecutive games and 14 of their last 17, with a point differential that ranks the worst in the NBA.
- Bucks: With a record of 15-20, they are on a favorable run, winning three of their last four games, including a close victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Friday.
Key Matchup: Giannis Antetokounmpo
If he plays, Giannis Antetokounmpo poses a significant challenge for the Kings. The nine-time All-Star is averaging 29.0 points and 10.0 rebounds this season, recently returning from an eight-game absence due to a calf injury.
Game Details
The Kings will welcome the Bucks on Sunday at:
| Time | 6 p.m. |
|---|---|
| Location | Golden 1 Center, Sacramento |
| TV Broadcast | NBC Sports California |
| Radio | Sactown Sports 1140 |
| Odds | Bucks -6.5 |
| Over/Under | 228.5 |
Injury Reports
- Bucks:
- PROBABLE — Giannis Antetokounmpo (calf)
- QUESTIONABLE — Gary Harris (neck)
- OUT — Alex Antetokounmpo, Pete Nance, Taurean Prince, and Mark Sears (all G League)
- Kings:
- QUESTIONABLE — Zach LaVine (ankle)
- OUT — Dylan Cardwell, Daeqwon Plowden, Domantas Sabonis, and Isaiah Stevens (all G League)
This matchup is not only critical for both teams’ standings but also for the potential trading landscape leading up to the deadline.
