Sports
Kings Weigh Trade Options for Star Player Domantas Sabonis
SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Sacramento Kings are reportedly exploring trade possibilities for star center Domantas Sabonis as they struggle with a 3-9 record this season. With a young roster and the team’s poor start, front office discussions may lead to changes aimed at building for the future.
Sabonis, a three-time All-Star, is drawing interest from multiple NBA teams, according to insider Sam Amick. “So, as it relates to Sabonis, my understanding is there are at least a few teams that have raised their hand to say, ‘Yeah, he’s somebody we’d want to talk about,’” Amick said during a recent broadcast.
Despite his credentials, Sabonis has faced challenges this season, averaging only 15.3 points and 12.3 rebounds per game, with a shooting percentage of 49.5. His struggles have raised concerns about his marketability in trade talks. “I don’t think he has a robust market. Part of it is what he does. You have to really decide that you’re committing to a system that supports his skill set,” Amick added.
Sabonis is in the first year of a contract worth $42.3 million, which increases the complexity of any potential trades, as teams would need to match salaries with valuable assets. This season’s underperformance could have a lasting impact on how teams view his trade value.
The Kings acquired Sabonis in February 2022, trading away Tyrese Haliburton to the Indiana Pacers. Since then, Sabonis has been one of the team’s few bright spots, but the Kings have struggled to make a significant impact in the NBA, only making the playoffs once in the past 20 years.
Additional players, including Malik Monk, DeMar DeRozan, and Zach LaVine, could also be on the trading block as Sacramento explores its options. The 2025-26 season still has over 70 games remaining, but the current trajectory suggests a pivotal moment for the franchise.
