Kings' Kevin Huerter: Won't return this season

Huerter (shoulder) is expected to miss the remainder of the 2023-24 season, even if the Kings make the playoffs, Grant Afseth of NBAAnalysis.net reports.

Huerter suffered a dislocation and labral tear to his left shoulder in the Kings' 121-111 win over the Grizzlies on March 18 and is set to miss his fourth consecutive game Monday versus the 76ers. Though the Kings haven't provided an official timeline on Huerter's return, league sources have informed Afseth that the 25-year-old wing will require an extended recovery period that will keep him out for the rest of the regular season and playoffs. Before he suffered the injury, Huerter's production had declined in most areas during his second season with the Kings, as he averaged 10.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.9 three-pointers and 0.7 steals in 24.4 minutes per game over 64 appearances. He'll now shift his focus toward preparing for the 2024-25 season.