Domantas Sabonis Knee Injury: Update & Kings Struggles

Sacramento Kings star Domantas Sabonis has undergone season-ending surgery to repair a torn meniscus in his left knee, effectively ending his 2025-26 NBA season. The surgery was performed on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

Sabonis initially sustained the injury earlier in the season and attempted rehabilitation and continued play, missing 27 games from November to January. He returned to the court on January 16, 2026, but ongoing soreness and knee management ultimately led to the decision for surgical intervention.

The 29-year-old forward has appeared in only 19 games this season, averaging 15.8 points, 11.4 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game – his lowest averages since the 2018-2019 season. This marks a significant downturn in production for the player.

The Kings are currently experiencing a challenging season, with a 12-44 record as of Thursday, February 19, 2026. This places them at the bottom of both the Western Conference and the entire NBA. They are currently on a 14-game losing streak.

Sabonis’s injury comes less than a week after Kings guard Zach LaVine also received a season-ending diagnosis, requiring surgery on his right hand to address finger soreness. LaVine, 30, had been averaging 19.2 points in 39 games.

The Kings had reportedly considered trading Sabonis prior to the trade deadline, but he remained with the team. He is currently under contract with the Kings through the 2027-2028 season, with earnings exceeding $90 million USD over the next two years.

A torn meniscus is a common knee injury in athletes, involving cartilage that acts as a cushion between the thighbone and shinbone. Symptoms can include pain, swelling, stiffness, and a feeling of the knee “locking.” Treatment options range from conservative management, such as rest and physical therapy, to surgical intervention, depending on the severity and location of the tear, as well as the patient’s activity level and goals.

Rehabilitation following meniscus surgery typically involves a gradual progression of exercises to restore range of motion, strength, and stability. The recovery timeline can vary significantly depending on the type of repair performed and individual factors. Athletes often face a prolonged period of rehabilitation before returning to competitive play.

The decision to undergo surgery, particularly mid-season, is often a difficult one for professional athletes. It involves weighing the potential benefits of a full recovery against the immediate impact of missing games and potentially disrupting team dynamics. In the Kings’ case, with their current record, the long-term health of Sabonis likely factored heavily into the decision.

The loss of both Sabonis and LaVine represents a significant blow to the Kings’ roster. Their absence will undoubtedly impact the team’s performance and development as they navigate the remainder of the season. The team will need to rely on other players to step up and fill the void left by these key contributors.