Cardwell Set for Kings Season Debut Against Lakers

Cardwell, a defensive-minded reserve center, sat out Sacramento’s opening seven contests because of a calf injury, but was omitted from the injury report for Wednesday’s matchup. His return could help a team that has struggled for size, rebounding and rim protection.

The Kings enter the game 1-6 after earning their first victory of the season on the road against Dallas. Precious Achiuwa is listed as probable with left ankle soreness. Keegan Murray, out with left ankle capsulitis, Maxime Raynaud, sidelined by a right patella subluxation, and Ben Simmons, recovering from right Achilles surgery, remain unavailable.

Los Angeles has won six of its first eight games and has Luka Doncic leading a strong start. The Lakers have only two players on their injury list: Walker Kessler is available while wearing a finger splint, and Adou Thiero is out for left knee injury management.

The teams have had sharply different results at both ends of the floor. Through eight games, the Lakers rank first in offense; Sacramento ranks sixth-worst offensively and third-worst defensively. The Kings’ bench has also struggled, and Cardwell’s presence may offer added depth.

The game is scheduled to tip off at 7 p.m. Pacific time in Sacramento. The Kings will try to follow their win over Dallas with a second straight victory, while facing a Lakers team that has started the season strongly.