SAN FRANCISCO — Sacramento star De'Aaron Fox expects to be available in Game 5 of the Warriors-Kings series despite breaking a finger on his shooting hand.
Video on social media from Kings' practice in Sacramento on Tuesday showed Fox, who's listed as doubtful for Wednesday's game, shooting free throws and knocking down 3-pointers while wearing a splint on his left index finger. After practice concluded, Fox told reporters he plans to play.
"I don't think it's a big deal, but obviously depending on how much it gets hit and things like that, then I feel like the pain will increase," Fox said. "But if it was to stay the exact same way it is right now, I'll be fine."
Fox appeared to injure his finger with 4:35 left in Sunday's game when he drove past Jordan Poole and drew a foul, then attempted a post-whistle layup over Kevon Looney, who swiped at the ball. Their hands appeared to collide and Fox was subsequently spotted shaking his left hand before grabbing it.
He remained in the game and finished with 38 points, nine rebounds and five assists.
Fox has been one of the Warriors' greatest challenges of this first-round matchup. He's averaged 31.5 points, seven assists, six rebounds and 2.5 steals in the first four games of this best-of-seven series.
While the injury shouldn't impact his shooting, it could prevent him from being aggressive on defense, grabbing rebounds and driving through traffic.
The Warriors will approach Thursday's game as business as usual, despite the news of Fox's injury.
"You just play, the game plan stays the same," coach Steve Kerr said. "Just go out there and do what you have to do."
Golden State has struggled all season on the road, but Game 5 presents an opportunity to buck that trend, as the Warriors enter following two straight wins to even the series. Golden State would need to win at least one game on the road to move on to the Western Conference semifinals.
The Kings are 4-5 without Fox this season.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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