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Kings G Chris Duarte Out for Remainder of Preseason With Injury

Originally posted on FanNation Inside The Kings
By Logan Struck | Last updated 10/17/23

The Sacramento Kings have started their preseason 0-3, but their biggest loss has been G Chris Duarte suffering an injury. Duarte suffered a bone bruise in his left knee during Sunday's loss to the Golden State Warriors before exiting the game early.

Sean Cunningham of FOX40 reports that Duarte will miss the last two preseason games against the Warriors and Utah Jazz and will be reevaluated heading into the regular season.

Duarte, 26, was acquired from the Indiana Pacers via trade this off-season and has already proven well worth the two second-round picks.

Following Sunday's loss, where Duarte got injured, HC Mike Brown shared "good news" that Duarte's injury was a "small bone bruise." While the extent of Duarte's absence is unknown, Sacramento will want him back as soon as possible.

Duarte's injury came in his first game as a starter for the Kings, as Brown moved G Kevin Huerter to the bench in place of the off-season addition. During the Kings practice on Tuesday, Huerter remained with the second unit despite Duarte's absence.

Kevin Huerter working with the second unit at practice today. Looks like Davion Mitchell is grouped with the starters.

Chris Duarte, who suffered a bone bruise to his left knee on Sunday, is out for the final two preseason games, per the Kings.
— Frankie Cartoscelli (@FCartoscelli3) October 17, 2023

Whether Duarte was ready to play or not, it is worth keeping him sidelined to close out the regular season rather than risking further injuries. If Duarte has to miss the beginning of the regular season, Sacramento has enough depth to hold down the fort until he is back.

Duarte's absence will likely result in young G Colby Jones stepping into a more prominent role. The rookie has gotten work in with the second unit during preseason action and looked comfortable in that role.

This article first appeared on FanNation Inside The Kings and was syndicated with permission.

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