Domantas Sabonis returns after 27 games absence

Sacramento Kings star forward Domantas Sabonis returned to the lineup Friday night against the Washington Wizards, ending a 27-game absence caused by a partially torn meniscus in his left knee.

Sabonis came off the bench and entered the Wizards vs Kings game with 5:11 left in the first quarter.

He had been officially listed as questionable before the game. His return marks the end of a recovery process that lasted almost two months.

The 27-year-old opted not to undergo surgery and instead focused on rehabilitation to strengthen his knee and regain his fitness.

Before the injury, Sabonis averaged 17.2 points and 12.3 rebounds in his first 11 games of the season, continuing his role as one of Sacramento’s most reliable players.

Now in his fifth season with the Kings, Sabonis remains a key figure on a team going through a period of transition.

Sacramento is in a rebuilding phase under new general manager Scott Perry, and league sources say the organization has been open to trade discussions involving veterans on big contracts.

Sabonis has three years and $136.3 million remaining on his current contract, making him one of the most important names to watch.

His return against Washington could help the Kings evaluate how he fits into their plans going forward, whether it’s building around him or exploring potential moves.