The NBA trade window is approaching, and the Sacramento Kings are widely expected to be active as league discussions begin to intensify. Once viewed as a potential sleeper in the Western Conference, Sacramento has struggled to meet internal expectations and now faces difficult roster decisions.
As of Dec. 21, the Kings sit at 6–22, tied for the third-worst record in the league. With the team falling well out of contention, attention has shifted to possible moves involving veteran players. Zach LaVine and DeMar DeRozan have emerged as the primary names linked to trade talks, though questions remain about how easily either contract could be moved without additional incentives.
Both players bring individual credentials, but there is uncertainty around their trade value given their age and fit within the modern NBA. Despite those challenges, Sacramento is not short on players who could attract interest around the league.
Domantas Sabonis is one such name, and his situation appears far less settled. According to reporting by Marc Stein, the Kings have not clearly committed to making Sabonis available, even as interest in him remains strong across the NBA. The organization’s immediate focus, according to Stein, is centered on exploring options involving DeRozan and LaVine, while discussions around Sabonis are less defined.
There has been no firm indication that Sacramento is actively shopping its All-Star center, suggesting at least some internal hesitation about moving on from him. At the same time, Stein notes that Sabonis is drawing league-wide attention, leaving the door open if the right proposal were to surface.
Whether the Kings ultimately decide to include Sabonis in their trade considerations may depend on how they view their long-term direction. A full rebuild could prompt broader moves, while a belief that the roster can be reshaped more quickly may lead the team to retain its centerpiece.
For now, Sacramento’s stance remains unresolved as the trade season approaches.
