Kings expect Sabonis back after 27-game absence

The Sacramento Kings expect All-Star forward Domantas Sabonis to return Friday after missing 27 games with a partially torn meniscus in his left knee; he is officially listed as questionable.

Domantas Sabonis is expected to rejoin the Sacramento Kings on Friday after a 27-game absence. He missed games because of a partially torn meniscus in his left knee and completed a roughly two-month rehabilitation without surgery. Sabonis is officially listed as questionable for the matchup with the Washington Wizards, but the team anticipates his return. His return comes amid a difficult season for the Kings. Known details: - Sabonis missed 27 games with a partially torn meniscus in his left knee. - He is officially listed as questionable but the team expects him to play Friday against the Washington Wizards. - Sabonis opted against surgery and completed a careful, roughly two-month rehab. - The Kings are 11-30 and have won three straight games to open a seven-game homestand. - Sabonis is in his fifth season with Sacramento and has three years and $136.3 million remaining on his contract. - New general manager Scott Perry has been open to discussing trades for veterans as the Feb. 5 trade deadline approaches. Summary: If he plays, Sabonis would return to the lineup Friday as the Kings continue their homestand. The team is navigating a rebuilding season, and his availability is noted as the Feb. 5 trade deadline nears. The immediate next step is the scheduled game against the Washington Wizards.