Dallas Mavericks vs Sacramento Kings: preview and player stats (Apr 9, 2027)

Lively (foot) is listed as out for Thursday's game in Minnesota. Lively is still working his way back from foot surgery. He's reportedly trending favorably, though he should continue to be classified as week-to-week, at least until the team provides an update. While Lively remains on the shelf, Daniel Gafford is expected to stay in the starting lineup, with Morez Johnson (shin), Santi Aldama and Moussa Cisse all in line to spend time at the five when needed.

Gafford (face) won't return to Saturday's game against the Cavaliers, Grant Afseth of DallasHoopsJournal.com reports. Gafford took a shot by Thomas Bryant and exited the game after making two free throws earlier, but the center won't return. This means Morez Johnson and Santi Aldama should see more time in the frontcourt. Gafford ends the contest with 10 points (4-5 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 1-2 FT), three rebounds and an assist across 17 minutes. His next chance to play will come Sunday against the Celtics on the second leg of a back-to-back set.

Christie (ankle) has been ruled out for Saturday's game against Cleveland. Christie was doubtful to play due to a left ankle sprain, and he will indeed be forced to sit out his second contest of the 2026-27 campaign. Expect Naji Marshall and Zaccharie Risacher to see a boost in minutes.

De Larrea (knee) has been ruled out for Thursday's game at Minnesota. De Larrea hasn't played since Oct. 26 due to a right knee sprain, but he's expected to be re-evaluated soon. Still, he can be considered week-to-week until Dallas provides an update on his progress.

Biberovic (heel) is out for Thursday's game against Minnesota. Biberovic remains plagued by right heel bursitis. The rookie forward carries no timetable for his season debut.

Injury/Illness - Illness (2026-11-15, OKC@SAC). Prior reporting (2026-11-15): Murray (illness) is questionable for Sunday's game against the Thunder. Murray didn't participate in Saturday's shootaround, so the questionable tag isn't a surprise. De'Andre Hunter and Dylan Cardwell could play a bigger role if Murray isn't available, especially since Precious Achiuwa (ankle) is also uncertain to suit up Sunday.

Injury/Illness - Left Ankle Soreness (2026-11-15, OKC@SAC). Prior reporting (2026-11-15): Achiuwa (ankle) is questionable for Sunday's game against the Thunder. Achiuwa missed Friday's 120-107 loss to Portland due to left ankle soreness, and that same ailment will keep him questionable for Sunday's home tilt against OKC. Keegan Murray got the start in place of Achiuwa, which would likely be the case again if the latter is sidelined.

Injury/Illness - Right Achilles Tendon Repair / Surgery (2026-11-15, OKC@SAC). Prior reporting (2026-10-21): 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. Previously reported out for season.

G League - Two-Way (2026-11-15, OKC@SAC).

Injury/Illness - Right Patella Subluxation (2026-11-15, OKC@SAC). Prior reporting (2026-11-15): Raynaud (knee) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Thunder. Raynaud will miss his 13th consecutive game to start 2026-27 after injuring his knee during the preseason. It sounds like the Frenchman is getting closer to making his season debut, with his next chance to do so coming Wednesday versus Phoenix.

G League - Two-Way (2026-11-15, OKC@SAC).