Denver Nuggets vs Sacramento Kings: preview and player stats

Strawther (knee) was diagnosed with a left knee sprain Friday and will be re-evaluated in six weeks, Vinny Benedetto of The Denver Gazette reports. Strawther suffered the injury in Wednesday's preseason game against the Clippers. The 24-year-old has appeared in 172 regular-season games for the Nuggets since entering the league in 2023, averaging 7.1 points, 2.0 rebounds and 1.1 assists over 16.2 minutes per contest. He was in line to compete for an expanded role during the 2026-27 campaign. While that may be the case once Strawther is cleared to suit up, Tyus Jones and potentially Ryan Nembhard are candidates to receive more minutes in the interim.

Achiuwa left Tuesday's 107-100 loss to the Magic with a left lower leg contusion and did not return, Matt George of ABC 10 Sacramento reports. With Achiuwa exiting the game after 14 minutes, more minutes became available for Dylan Cardwell. If Achiuwa needs to miss Friday's game against the Trail Blazers, Keegan Murray would likely return to the starting lineup, and Cardwell would have the chance for some extended run.

Simmons underwent successful surgery Tuesday to repair a torn right Achilles tendon, James Ham of ESPN 1320 Sacramento reports. Simmons had a quality preseason, averaging 10.5 points, 4.0 rebounds and 4.0 assists over 17.4 minutes per contest (two games). The 30-year-old was on track to suit up for the Kings on opening night, though those plans were halted after he suffered a torn Achilles tendon during practice. Now, Simmons will focus on rehab. However, it's unknown what the future holds regarding his career in the NBA. Reported out for season.

Raynaud (knee) has been ruled out for Tuesday's game against Orlando. Raynaud is expected to be re-evaluated soon, though he can be considered week-to-week until the Kings offer an update on his status. Dylan Cardwell and Precious Achiuwa will likely continue seeing increased burn in Raynaud's absence.