Report: Alex Len is expected to miss six to eight weeks with high ankle sprain
Nov 20, 2023, 12:06 PM
SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA - NOVEMBER 01: Alex Len #25 of the Sacramento Kings warms up before the game before the game against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center on November 01, 2023 in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
(Photo by Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)
After being one of the most healthy teams in the NBA last season, the Sacramento Kings have dealt with various injuries to start 2023-24. Recently, Alex Len suffered a right ankle injury while playing against the Cleveland Cavaliers and is expected to miss six to eight weeks while rehabbing.
Alex Len was part of the group head coach Mike Brown was highly complimentary of at the end of their second matchup against the Houston Rockets. As a result, Len, Keon Ellis, and Kessler Edwards have all seen additional opportunities since.
The 7’0 big man had been playing in his third consecutive matchup since then, on November 13th, before Caris LeVert landed on his right ankle and caused a high ankle sprain.
A look at the collision with Kings center Alex Len and Caris LeVert. Len will not return after turning his right ankle. pic.twitter.com/JjaAi2R1Gs
— Sean Cunningham (@SeanCunningham) November 14, 2023
Alex Len continues the rehab process for the right ankle injury he sustained during the Kings vs. Cavaliers game on November 13th. Additioanl testing and further evaluation confirmed that Len will be sidelined for apporoximatley six to eight weeks with a moderate but stable high ankle sprain. Updates on his progression will be provided as necessary.
- Per Kings’ PR (11/17/23)
Len’s absence has allowed JaVale McGee to return to his role as the backup center behind All-Star Domantas Sabonis. McGee and Alex Len have varying play styles, but Sacramento’s options at that spot will be limited for the near future.
December 29th would mark six weeks from the provided update, while January 12th is the eight-week point. Alex Len has already missed the Kings’ three previous games and (according to the provided timeline) is expected to be sidelined for at least 15 additional matchups — not to mention potential In-Season Tournament games.
Trey Lyles (right calf) has yet to play a game for Sacramento in the regular season, and his timeline is uncertain. Meanwhile, the status of Kevin Huerter (left finger) seems more day-to-day.
With a few unavailabilities adding up, their depth will need to continue to capitalize on the additional opportunity if the Kings hope to extend their six-game win streak.
Upcoming Schedule
- Monday, November 20th – Sacramento Kings @ New Orleans Pelicans – 5:00 PM PST
- Wednesday, November 22nd – Sacramento Kings @ New Orleans Pelicans – 5:00 PM PST
- Friday, November 24th – Sacramento Kings @ Minnesota Timberwolves** – 5:00 PM PST
- Tuesday, November 28th – Sacramento Kings vs. Golden State Warriors** – 7:00 PM PST
- Wednesday, November 29th – Sacramento Kings vs. Los Angeles Clippers – 7:00 PM PST
** NBA In-Season Tournament Group Play
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