Kings Weigh Trade Market While Prioritizing Defense, Gauge Value of LaVine and Ellis
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Sacramento’s front office is actively searching for roster upgrades that fit its defense-first blueprint, according to a report by Jake Fischer of The Stein Line.
LaVine Interest Cooled by Contract Size
Fischer noted that the Kings and Golden State Warriors were the only clubs to express serious interest in Zach LaVine before Chicago attempted to move the guard last season. Golden State’s subsequent acquisition of Jimmy Butler effectively ended its pursuit, leaving Sacramento as the lone team still monitoring LaVine’s situation.
League sources told Fischer that LaVine’s four-year maximum contract remains a sticking point. Teams would be more receptive if the 29-year-old declined his $49 million player option for 2026-27 in favor of a longer deal starting at a lower salary, but that scenario is considered unlikely for now.
Trae Young Scenario No Longer on Table
The previous Kings regime briefly explored bringing in Trae Young, and LaVine’s representatives even floated a three-team framework that would have sent LaVine to Atlanta and Young to Sacramento, per Fischer. General manager Scott Perry, who took over basketball operations this offseason, has since ruled out pursuits of Young, LaMelo Ball or Ja Morant, viewing their offensive-minded star power as misaligned with Sacramento’s desired defensive identity.
League-Wide Demand for Keon Ellis
More than half of NBA teams have contacted the Kings regarding guard Keon Ellis, a source told Fischer. Clubs view Ellis as a rotation-ready, two-way contributor who becomes extension-eligible before unrestricted free agency in 2026. Sacramento could reportedly secure a first-round pick for the 24-year-old or package him with a higher-salary player such as LaVine or DeMar DeRozan in a larger deal.
The Kings have not set a timetable for any potential moves but continue to canvass offers as the offseason progresses.
Source: Hoops Wire
