De’Aaron Fox Trade Talks Intensify as Kings Weigh Future

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Sacramento Kings are facing a pivotal decision as trade talks surrounding star guard De'Aaron Fox intensify ahead of the NBA‘s Feb. 6 trade deadline. Fox, a 27-year-old former All-Star, has become one of the most sought-after players in the league, with more than half of NBA teams reportedly inquiring about his availability.

Fox’s concerns about his long-term future in Sacramento have fueled speculation about a potential move. The Kings, currently tied for 10th in the Western Conference with a 24-23 record, are navigating a flurry of offers while weighing the implications of trading their franchise cornerstone. League sources indicate that the San Antonio Spurs, Fox’s preferred destination, are actively involved in discussions, though a deal remains uncertain.

One major sticking point is the potential inclusion of Spurs rookie guard Stephon Castle, the No. 4 overall pick in the 2024 NBA Draft. The Kings are reportedly interested in Castle, but the Spurs are hesitant to part with the promising young player. “If that’s ultimately the case, the Kings would have to determine whether there’s an acceptable pathway to doing the deal without him,” a league source said.

Fox, who has one season remaining on his contract worth $37 million, has been vocal about his desire to compete at a higher level. “I want to make sure that we’re in that position to be competing and competing at a high level for a long time, not just fighting for a playoff spot,” Fox said recently. “We want to continue to build on that and just continue to try to change this culture.”

The Kings’ recent struggles, including a 117-104 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday, have added urgency to the situation. Interim coach Doug Christie has led the team to 11 wins in their last 15 games, but the uncertainty surrounding Fox has become a distraction. “The mood of the team could certainly play a part here,” a source close to several Kings players said. “There’s frustration that this situation has become such an ill-timed distraction.”

Meanwhile, the Spurs (20-24) are weighing their options as they aim to build around rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama. Veteran point guard Chris Paul, who signed a one-year, $11 million deal with the team in July, has been instrumental in their progress this season. Integrating Fox in the offseason, rather than midseason, could be a more viable option for San Antonio.

As the deadline approaches, the Kings are also exploring other trade scenarios, though they have ruled out pursuing Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler. “The Fox situation is headache enough on its own,” a league source said. With the clock ticking, Sacramento must decide whether to commit to Fox or pivot toward a new era.