The Sacramento Kings are searching for their first victory of the 2026-27 NBA season after falling 112-123 to the Memphis Grizzlies on October 25. This loss extends their winless start to three games, following defeats to the Portland Trail Blazers and LA Clippers. Despite the 0-3 record, there's a palpable sense of optimism within the team's Golden 1 Center facility, fueled by the return of several key contributors from injury.
Last season was a disaster. The Kings finished 22-60, one of their worst records since moving to Sacramento. Injuries decimated the roster. Domantas Sabonis only appeared in 19 games due to a torn meniscus. Keegan Murray was limited to 23 games with an ankle issue. Zach LaVine missed half the season. That core is now back on the court together, creating a new energy. "Everyone's excited," Sabonis told reporters. "There was a lot of guys who were hurt. So just being out there." The clean slate of a new season has reset expectations internally.
The Kings' defense has struggled out of the gate. They opened the season with a 96-121 road loss to the LA Clippers on October 21. Two nights later, they fell 120-128 at home to the Portland Trail Blazers. Their most recent outing saw them drop a 112-123 decision to the Memphis Grizzlies. The team is clearly working to integrate returning players and find a defensive rhythm.
Immediate focus shifts to stopping the skid. The Kings travel to face the San Antonio Spurs on October 27. It's a prime opportunity to get in the win column against a Western Conference opponent. Head coach will be looking for more consistency on the perimeter and better paint protection. The return of Sabonis's rebounding and playmaking is a major positive, but the team needs others to step up defensively. A victory in San Antonio could provide the spark needed to build momentum and climb out of the early-season hole. The schedule doesn't get easier, so capitalizing on this chance is important.
