3 Adjustments the Kings Must Make in De'Aaron Fox's Absence

Despite winning two of their first three games to start the 2023-24 NBA season, the Sacramento Kings franchise and fanbase are not the happiest people on Earth right now. During Sunday night's overtime win against the Los Angeles Lakers, All-NBA G De'Aaron Fox suffered a "moderate sprain of his right ankle," per Shams Charania of The Athletic.

Fox attempted to play through the injury but was pulled during overtime to preserve his health. With an injured Fox and a fouled-out C Domantas Sabonis, the Kings got the job done against a Lakers squad led by superstar duo F LeBron James and C Anthony Davis.

Fox's expected return date is unknown, but the Kings must prepare to be without their All-Star point guard for the next couple of weeks. Even though they will miss Fox's presence, do not expect the Kings to start losing games without him.

Here are three adjustments the Kings must make if they want to keep their hot start going, even without Fox:

Start Davion Mitchell at point guard

The Kings have two clear options for their vacant starting point guard spot with Fox injured in G Malik Monk and G Davion Mitchell. Over the last two seasons, when Fox misses time, the Kings rely on Mitchell to fill the starting point guard hole.

While Monk has been impressive since joining the Kings in 2022 free agency, Sacramento values his presence off the bench. Monk should still close the game as the lead playmaker, but Mitchell makes more sense within the starting lineup.

Mitchell will need to step up in Fox's absence, as this will be an opportunity for the 25-year-old lockdown defender to prove himself with the ball in his hands

Give rookie Colby Jones more playing time

Despite playing less than two minutes total through his first three career regular season games, G Colby Jones has plenty to provide if given the opportunity. Jones is a valuable presence on both sides of the ball, as shown in preseason action.

Jones can step up as a ball handler and playmaker if needed, but his inexperience limits his minutes. With Fox set to miss multiple games, it is a prime opportunity for HC Mike Brown to give Jones more minutes with the second unit. The 21-year-old guard is not the explosive player Fox is, but his patience and high IQ are elite for an inexperienced rookie.

With backup point guard Mitchell likely moving into the starting lineup and off-season addition G Chris Duarte struggling to start the season, the Kings must look toward Jones for added guard depth.

Let Keegan Murray cook

Following a 2023 off-season filled with noise around the development of sophomore F Keegan Murray, the 23-year-old has the opportunity to be a potential first-option in Fox's absence. Through the first three games of the season, Murray is averaging 16.0 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 2.3 assists despite disappointing shooting performances.

The Kings will rely on Murray to be a playmaker on the wing and likely the go-to guy in the starting lineup behind Sabonis. The offense will be run through the All-NBA center, but do not be shocked if Murray is the leading scorer for Sacramento while Fox is out.

Murray has attempted 13+ shots and 9+ three-pointers in all three starts this season, but his volume must increase if the Kings want to win games without their All-Star point guard.

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