Is Brandon Ingram playing tonight vs Sacramento Kings? Exploring former MIP’s availability for Thursday’s game (Dec. 12) 

The New Orleans Pelicans will be without Brandon Ingram when they host the Sacramento Kings on Thursday night at the Smoothie King Center. He is listed as out indefinitely on the Pelicans’ injury report with an ankle injury.

The 2020 Most Improved Player suffered the injury during the first possession of the third quarter against the OKC Thunder on Saturday. Ingram landed on the foot of OKC defender Lu Dort while attempting a mid-range jumper and fell to the court immediately. He did not return to the game and ESPN’s Shams Charania later confirmed what many feared:

“New Orleans Pelicans star Brandon Ingram has suffered a significant sprain to his left ankle and is sidelined indefinitely, sources told ESPN. Another important blow for the Pelicans’ season.”

This seemed to be the final nail in the coffin for a Pelicans team that has been blighted by injuries this season. They are currently last in the Western Conference standings with a 5-20 record and have lost nine of their last 10 games.

For Thursday’s game, the team will also be without Zion Williamson (left hamstring strain), José Alvarado (hamstring), Jordan Hawkins (back) and Karlo Matkovic (back). Javonte Green is doubtful with an ankle problem.

How has Brandon Ingram fared against the Sacramento Kings in the past?

Brandon Ingram has faced the Sacramento Kings in 24 regular season games so far. He has a winning record of 15-9 and averages 19.0 points, 5.2 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game.

Ingram’s best outing against Sacramento came during a game on April 12, 2021. The Pelicans forward led the team with 34 points and won the game 117-110. He also added seven assists, six rebounds, two blocks and a steal.

Ingram started 18 games this season before suffering the injury. He averaged 22.2 points, 5.6 rebounds and 5.2 assists in those games.

Where and how to watch Sacramento Kings vs New Orleans Pelicans?

The Sacramento Kings vs New Orleans Pelicans game is scheduled for 8 pm EST on Thursday, December 12 at the Smoothie King Center. The game will be broadcast locally on GCSEN and NBCSCA. Fans can also stream it live on NBA League Pass and FuboTV. Both are paid services and require active subscriptions.