Kings' Sasha Vezenkov Provides Optimistic Injury Update

The reigning EuroLeague MVP could return to action soon.

Oct 29, 2023; Sacramento, California, USA; Sacramento Kings forward Sasha Vezenkov (7) pumps his fist. / Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

The Sacramento Kings have had poor luck with losing players to injuries in the final stretch of the regular season, with Trey Lyles, Kevin Huerter, and Sasha Vezenkov each suffering long-term injuries. With just ten games remaining until the playoffs, health is the most important factor for a Sacramento squad trying to dodge the Play-In Tournament.

Luckily for Kings fans, sharpshooter and reigning EuroLeague MVP Vezenkov gave the media an injury update after Thursday's practice, hinting at a near return (via @James_HamNBA | X):

"[I'm] feeling better. Getting to the right direction." Vezenkov continues, "I'm trying hard every day. Unfortunately, the second injury was the same leg... so I'm trying. First time in my career I'm out so long. It's stressful. I want to help the team, but I'm trying to be 100 percent to be ready to help the team... I don't know yet [when I'll return], every practice is different and every day is different."

Vezenkov has missed 21 consecutive games and 28 of the last 30, but with Lyles and Huerter sidelined, the Kings could use his presence off the bench. The backup forward provides an elite shooting ability and necessary floor spacing to this Sacramento squad, and the sooner he returns, the sooner Mike Brown will be able to maximize his lineups.

Vezenkov's ankle injuries have been an unfortunate setback in his first year in the NBA after the 28-year-old forward got drafted by the Brooklyn Nets with the 57th overall pick in 2017. Vezenkov had a phenomenal career in Europe, and the Kings need the talented forward on the court for the opportunity to repeat his success in America.

As the season winds down, the Kings can hope Vezenkov is available for a potential playoff run.

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