The Portland Trail Blazers are heading into Thursday night’s matchup against the Sacramento Kings with a bit more clarity-and, perhaps, a bit more confidence-than they’ve had in recent weeks. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. Pacific, and for the first time in a while, Portland’s injury report is showing signs of life instead of limitations.
Donovan Clingan and Robert Williams III, both recently listed as “Questionable” before being upgraded to “Available” ahead of the Blazers’ last game against Golden State, are no longer on the injury list. That’s a good sign for a team that’s been navigating a revolving door of health issues all season.
Clingan saw the floor against the Warriors, bringing his usual size and presence in the paint, while Williams also got minutes and showed flashes of the defensive instincts that make him so valuable when healthy. Yang Hansen, who was also upgraded to “Available,” didn’t log any playing time, but his continued presence on the bench suggests he’s at least physically ready if called upon.
That’s a meaningful shift for a Blazers squad that’s struggled to find rhythm and continuity. With Clingan and Williams both active, Portland can finally start to build some consistency in their frontcourt rotations-something they’ve sorely lacked.
On the other side, the Kings are dealing with a much more crowded injury list. Devin Carter, Drew Eubanks, Zach LaVine, Daeqwon Plowden, Domantas Sabonis, and Isaiah Stevens are all ruled out.
That’s a significant chunk of depth and star power, especially with Sabonis sidelined-he’s the engine of Sacramento’s offense and a key piece on the glass. Dennis Schroeder remains listed as “Questionable,” and if he can’t go, the Kings will be even more shorthanded in the backcourt.
This is a real opportunity for Portland. The Blazers are looking to string together back-to-back wins for the first time since late October.
That’s not a typo-it’s been nearly two months since they’ve stacked victories. And while Sacramento has been a tough out in recent seasons, they’re currently in a serious slump, having dropped 15 of their last 18 games.
If the Blazers want to start turning the corner, this is the kind of game they have to take advantage of. With a healthier roster and a struggling opponent on the other side, the table is set. Now it’s about execution.