When Sacramento Kings traveled to cope Phoenix Suns On Sunday, star sixth man Malik Monk exited the game in the second quarter with an ankle injury as the Kings had to win in overtime without him.

The Kings were able to get the win on Sunday thanks to the clutch genes of All-Star forward DeMar DeRozan, but bad news hit Sacramento in Wednesday’s rematch between the two Pacific Division rivals.

The Kings announced that DeRozan will not return for Wednesday’s game against the Suns after leaving the game with back tightness.

DeRozan managed to play 17 minutes in the first half, but did not return with the team to start the second half. In the first half, DeRozan certainly looked the part, attempting just two shots and making one, finishing his night with 2 points, 3 assists, 5 rebounds, 1 steal and 2 blocks.

Standout guard Keon Ellis started in place of DeRozan to start the second half. With Ellis in the lineup, the Kings definitely lose some size, but Ellis has proven to be one of the best young guards in the NBA, so it could work out well.

The Kings took a five-point lead into halftime, thanks in large part to the tremendous play of All-Star guard De’Aaron Fox. With Monk and DeRozan both released, it puts a lot of offensive responsibility on Fox, but it’s nothing he can’t handle.

If Sacramento can start its season series against the Suns with two straight wins, it would give the team significant momentum going forward, even if they play a Phoenix team that is missing Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal.

DeRozan has been a complete stud for the Kings this season, so the team has to hope their newest star can make a smooth recovery and return for Friday’s NBA Cup Group Play matchup against him. Minnesota Timberwolves.

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