Sacramento Kings forward De'Andre Hunter will undergo season-ending eye surgery, dealing a significant blow to the Kings' playoff hopes. Hunter had been a key contributor, and his absence leaves a major hole in Sacramento's lineup during the crucial stretch run.

Eye injuries are scary, and season-ending surgery is never the news you want to hear. The Kings were fighting for position, and now they're fighting without one of their key pieces. This is where depth gets tested.

Hunter has been a reliable two-way player for Sacramento all season, and losing him now - right when every game matters - is brutal timing. The Kings are in a crowded playoff race in the Western Conference, where one or two games can be the difference between postseason basketball and going home early.

The organization hasn't released specifics about the injury beyond the need for surgery, but eye issues are always concerning. The priority is getting Hunter healthy for next season, but right now, the Kings have to figure out how to replace his production.

This is the reality of an 82-game season - injuries happen, and teams either find a way to adjust or they fade. Sacramento's playoff hopes may depend on who steps up in Hunter's absence. That's what sports is all about, folks.