Game time, odds, where to watch NBA

Updated Dec. 27, 2025, 2:21 p.m. ET

The Sacramento Kings (7-23) are back in action following the holiday to host the Dallas Mavericks (12-20) at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento on Dec. 27 at 5 p.m. ET (2 p.m. local).

The Kings roster has suffered some blows to key players so far in this early season. Sacramento is expected to be without three starters Keegan Murray (mild calf strain), Zach LaVine (left ankle sprain) and Domantas Sabonis (left knee soreness).

Kings reserve center Drew Eubanks was ruled out with a left thumb avulsion fracture, while Devin Carter seems to be a gametime decision as he deals with a left ankle sprain.

The Mavericks are coming off of a 126-116 loss to the Golden State Warriors on Christmas Day behind a game-high 27 points and added six rebounds and five assists from rookie forward Cooper Flagg. Brandon Williams added 26 points off the bench for Dallas.

Mavericks center Anthony Davis is expected to sit out the game in Sacramento after suffering a “right groin spasm” on Thursday against Golden State in the second quarter. He did not return in that game.

Sacramento enters the game last in the Western Conference standings. Dallas is a few slots ahead, currently 11th in the conference.

Here’s what you need to know about Saturday’s matchup between the Kings and Mavericks.

Kings keys to victory

Lean on veterans: The veterans have been giving their all for Sacramento, showing the young guys how to be professional and play through the adversity of losing games. DeMar DeRozan has averaged 25.8 points, 4.8 assists and four rebounds for the Kings in his last five games. Russell Westbrook, who has had a double-double in four of his last five games has averaged 16.6 points, 7.4 rebounds and seven assists in that span.
Youth movement and energy: Kings have began to shift into allowing their young players to get some playing experience, whether due to injury or signs of promise they’ve shown in practice and games. Continue to allow the development of Maxime Raynaud, Nique Clifford and Dylan Cardwell. It may not result in many short term wins, but the real victory will be the players they grow to become in the future. That starts now.
Defensive pressure and transition: The Kings have looked more active defensively in recent games and it’s started with their intensity on the end which turned into transition baskets on fast breaks. Look for the Kings to keep those hands and feet active, something head coach Doug Christie preaches.
Team buy-in, stay ready: Some of the guys on the team have seen their minutes chopped. Once key rotation players such as Malik Monk and Keon Ellis have seen their playing time become sporadic and inconsistent compared to what their accustomed. It’s huge for team morale that whether they play five minutes or 45 minutes, they remain bought in and stay ready for their name to be called.

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