De’Aaron Fox’s Status in Doubt for Game 5 After Injuring Finger

According to multiple reports, the Sacramento Kings’ De’Aaron Fox is at risk of missing Game 5 against the Golden State Warriors.

The NBA’s Clutch Player of the Year fractured the tip of his left index finger during Game 4 on Sunday. Both Adrian Wojnarowski and Shams Charania state that Fox is now expected to head into Game 5 as doubtful due to the injury.

Kings guard De'Aaron Fox fractured the very tip of his left index finger in Game 4, but there's still hope he will try and play Game 5 on Tuesday, sources tell ESPN. Fox would need to play with a protective covering on the finger. He will be listed as doubtful.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) April 24, 2023

The Kings All-Star guard is believed to have sustained the injury midway through the fourth quarter of Sunday’s Game 3 and played through it. Fox had 38 points, nine rebounds and five assists on Sunday. https://t.co/41yWneUTWo

— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) April 24, 2023

This appears to be the play where Fox at least noticed something was wrong:

This appears to be the play that De'Aaron Fox fractured his left index finger in the middle of the fourth quarter yesterday. On a floater after the whistle. Looks like it clips Kevon Looney's hand. First time you see him clutch at it. pic.twitter.com/0Ip5YWbw8g

— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) April 24, 2023

Wojnarowski noted that there is some hope Fox can play through the pain with a protective covering on his hand. However, there is no question this is a massive development in a series that has been the most competitive of the first round.

The series is tied 2-2 after Golden State narrowly escaped Sunday’s battle 126-125. Fox dropped 38 points and has averaged 31.5 points per game with 7.0 assists over his four contests. Arguably the best player on the floor during this first-round battle, reclaiming the series lead could be tough if he isn’t able to suit up. And, even if he is out there, who knows how he’ll respond to playing with an issue on his shooting hand?

The Kings and Warriors will play their next game on Wednesday in Sacramento at 9:00 p.m. CT.