The Washington Wizards have made a significant roster move, acquiring Marcus Smart and a protected first-round pick from the Memphis Grizzlies. As part of a three-team trade involving the Sacramento Kings, the Wizards also secured Colby Jones and Alex Len. To complete the deal, they sent Marvin Bagley III and Johnny Davis to Memphis, while the Grizzlies dealt Jake LaRavia to the Kings.

Smart, who was the NBA Defensive Player of the Year in 2022, had a tumultuous tenure with the Grizzlies, playing only 39 games over two seasons. His addition is expected to provide the Wizards with defensive prowess and leadership. This trade not only bolsters the Wizards' roster but also provides them with additional flexibility in terms of salary cap, as Smart's contract is substantial.

The Sacramento Kings faced a heartbreaking defeat against the Detroit Pistons on December 26, 2024, extending their losing streak to five games. The game concluded with a dramatic four-point play by Jaden Ivey, who was fouled by De'Aaron Fox while making a three-pointer with only 3.1 seconds left. Despite a valiant effort from Fox, who scored 26 points, the Kings were unable to secure a win, ending the game at 114-113.

Fox's performance was notable as he reached a milestone of 500 games played for the franchise, joining an elite group in Kings history. Alongside him, Trey Lyles provided a season-high 20 points off the bench, while DeMar DeRozan and Keegan Murray contributed significantly, with DeRozan scoring 19 points and Murray achieving a double-double with 11 points and 12 rebounds.

With Domantas Sabonis sidelined due to illness, the Kings struggled to maintain their lead, especially in the closing moments of the game. Kevin Huerter's free throws seemed to give them a glimmer of hope, but ultimately, they could not finish strong. The game highlighted the need for the Kings to find consistent offensive production, particularly in the absence of their star player, Sabonis.

Overall, the Kings' bench showed some improvement, with contributions from players like Keon Ellis and Colby Jones, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Pistons' late-game surge. The loss has raised concerns about the team's ability to close out games, a recurring issue in their recent performances.

The Sacramento Kings faced a tough challenge against the Denver Nuggets, trailing significantly at one point. Despite a strong comeback, they fell short in a close game, losing by just one point.

Aaron Gordon was a standout for the Nuggets, contributing 24 points, while Jamal Murray led the team with 28 points, including the game-winner. The Kings, missing key players, struggled offensively but showed resilience, particularly in the second half.

This week presents unique challenges for fantasy basketball managers, especially with a significant number of teams on break until Thursday. Key injuries will force difficult lineup decisions.

Joel Embiid of the Philadelphia 76ers is sidelined with a sinus fracture, while Kristaps Porzingis of the Boston Celtics is dealing with an ankle issue but hopes to return soon.

Zach LaVine from the Chicago Bulls is questionable due to back spasms, and Bradley Beal of the Phoenix Suns is also struggling with knee swelling.

Additional injuries include Jared McCain's torn meniscus and Tobias Harris's thumb injury, impacting their respective teams' lineups.

Sacramento Kings head coach Mike Brown has been fined $35,000 for aggressively confronting a game official during live play in a recent match against the Brooklyn Nets. This incident occurred in the second quarter of the Kings' 108-103 loss, where Brown expressed his frustration over a non-call involving player Colby Jones.

Brown aimed to motivate his team by showing his commitment to fighting for them, leading to a temporary rally that cut a 19-point deficit to eight by halftime. However, his aggressive approach resulted in a hefty fine and contributed to the Kings' ongoing struggles, as they fell below .500 after a loss to Oklahoma City.