Suns Rival Watch: Kings Welcome Star Back

De'Aaron Fox is expected to return to the Sacramento Kings lineup as early as tonight.

The Sacramento Kings have been up-and-down so far this season, sitting at 4-4 about three weeks into the new season. 

A large catalyst behind Sacramento's slow start has been the absence of franchise player De'Aaron Fox, who sprained his ankle in the King's third game of the season and has missed the subsequent five games.

While the Kings defense has significantly improved from last year, the offense hasn't been anywhere near as potent in Fox's absence. 

Fortunately for the Kings and their fans, it appears Fox is set to return imminently. 

The Athletic's Shams Charania reported the Fox is set to return either tonight or Wednesday night after about two weeks out of commission.

Charania went on to say this on X:

"Sacramento Kings All-Star De’Aaron Fox is expected to return to lineup as soon as tonight vs. Cavaliers, or Wednesday at Lakers, sources tell me and @sam_amick. Fox has missed last five games due to a sprained ankle. He was a full participant in today’s shootaround"

The Kings sorely need Fox's all-around ability to be the engine of a potent offense that features numerous talented shot makers from Malik Monk to Keegan Murray. Along with his ability to be the engine of the offense, Fox also is very good at creating turnovers in various ways, which also creates numerous opportunities for an offense that should still be among the best in the NBA.

The Mike Brown-lead squad appears to have tread water well enough to be in position to clinch a second consecutive playoff appearance after being absent from the postseason since 2006.

Phoenix and Sacramento face off for the first time this season on December 22 in Sacramento, an unusually late date for their first matchup.