The Sacramento Kings’ hopes for a resurgent season may have hit an early snag as their star point guard, De’Aaron Fox, revealed he’s been playing through a significant injury to his shooting hand. The 2023 All-Star disclosed that he suffered a dislocated left pinkie finger during training camp, an injury that has yet to fully heal and is likely causing ligament damage.
Fox, who inked a massive extension with the Kings in 2020, has been the cornerstone of the franchise’s rebuilding efforts. His explosive speed, crafty finishing, and improved shooting have made him one of the NBA’s most dynamic young guards. However, this injury threatens to hamper his effectiveness, particularly his perimeter game.
Playing Through the Pain
Despite the discomfort and likely ligament damage, Fox has been gutting it out on the court. The 26-year-old has been playing with his pinkie and ring finger taped together on his left hand, a cumbersome solution that has noticeably impacted his usually reliable shooting stroke.
In a recent overtime loss to the Toronto Raptors, Fox’s struggles were particularly pronounced. He failed to score in the extra period and missed all 11 of his three-point attempts, including a potential game-tying shot in the waning seconds. His three-point percentage has plummeted to a paltry 26.8% through the Kings’ first six games.
“I wouldn’t change anything (about my shot selection), especially the last one. I got an open look, and it didn’t come off right. … I can’t say (the injury) is the reason. I’ve had games where I’ve shot it well and I’ve had games where I haven’t.”
– De’Aaron Fox on his shooting struggles
While Fox has downplayed the impact of the injury, it’s clear that it’s affecting his usually reliable shooting touch. For a Kings team with playoff aspirations, having their best player operating at less than 100% is a concerning development.
The Road Ahead
Despite the injury, Fox has no plans to sit out games. The fierce competitor intends to play through the pain, even as the Kings’ medical staff undoubtedly monitors the situation closely. With a grueling NBA season ahead, managing Fox’s health will be paramount to the team’s success.
The Kings, mired in the longest playoff drought in NBA history, are banking on Fox to lead them back to the postseason promised land. His ability to create off the dribble, break down defenses, and elevate his teammates’ play is vital to their offensive flow. If this hand injury lingers or worsens, it could derail Sacramento’s carefully laid plans.
Silver Linings and Adjustments
While Fox’s shooting numbers have dipped, he’s still finding ways to contribute. His assists and rebounding numbers remain solid, a testament to his multi-faceted game. As he adjusts to playing with this injury, expect the crafty guard to lean more on his playmaking and driving ability.
The Kings’ coaching staff will also need to make adjustments. Running more pick-and-roll actions to get Fox going downhill, staggering his minutes to allow for extra rest, and putting the ball in the hands of other creators like Tyrese Haliburton and Buddy Hield can help alleviate the burden on their star.
The Importance of Depth
Ultimately, navigating this early-season adversity will require a team effort. The Kings’ revamped roster, featuring savvy veterans like Harrison Barnes and talented youngsters like Davion Mitchell, must step up to keep the team afloat. If they can tread water while Fox heals, it could pay dividends down the stretch.
For Kings fans, the sight of their franchise player gutting through this injury is both inspiring and nerve-wracking. Fox’s toughness and dedication are admirable, but the long-term health of their cornerstone must be the top priority. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Fox’s shooting hand – and whether he can lead this long-suffering franchise back to basketball relevance.
