Kings’ Keegan Murray expected to make season debut on Saturday
Sacramento Kings rookie Keegan Murray is reportedly expected to make his NBA debut on Saturday against the Los Angeles Clippers, according to Marc J. Spears of Andscape.
Murray missed the final two games of the preseason and the season opener on Wednesday after a recent stint in the health and safety protocol. He recently was cleared to exit the health and safety protocol and returned to the team on Wednesday.
Kings head coach Mike Brown said previously that he would want Murray to practice at least once prior to returning to game action. Murray was a full participant in practice on Thursday and Friday, clearing the way for him to play on Saturday.
“I kinda had a smooth transition, honestly, just coming from the protocol and then back onto the court,” Murray said. “I think it is just the reconditioning and getting back into game shape and things like that but it has been smooth so far.”
Murray was a bit disappointed to miss the season opener. He wanted to play in all 82 games this season and be a player the team could count on every game. He was still happy to be back with the team and support them in the opener, though.
With two practices now completed, Murray appears to be ready to play versus the Clippers. Kings guard De’Aaron Fox said that Murray looks good to go.
He looks fine. You can’t tell he had COVID. Obviously, he is still a rookie and still is learning but I think he is excited and we’re excited to have him out there for a game that counts.
Murray had a great preseason run with the Kings over his two appearances, averaging 16 points, 4.5 rebounds, two steals and one assist on 70% shooting from 3-point range. He scored 16 points in each game and drained seven total 3s on 10 attempts.
The fourth pick figures to play a large role with the Kings this season, and could even start at some point. Brown has been non-committal about who would start at the power forward position but Murray projects to be in the running.
The Kings and Clippers tip off at 10 p.m. EDT on Saturday.
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